Real Life Stories
In this section you will find real life stories from people affected by pancreatic cancer. These stories provide examples of how people are diagnosed, the treatment they have, their experiences and how they take care of themselves.
Judy & Pete
Judy’s husband, Pete, found out he had pancreatic cancer after developing jaundice in summer 2022. Sadly, his cancer had spread to other organs and Pete passed away six months later, aged 66. Judy talks about their shock at his diagnosis and her wish to raise awareness of the symptoms.
Nicola
Nicola had a few weeks of bloating, followed by pale, oily stools and weight loss. She was diagnosed with stage 3 pancreatic cancer. After chemotherapy, Nicola was able to have surgery to remove the cancer. Nicola shares her 'roller coaster' year from diagnosis through treatment on to recovery.
Debbie & Rachel
Debbie’s mum Rachel was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2020, during the COVID lockdowns. She passed away at home in September 2022. Debbie reflects on her mum’s spirit and on the support their family had from each other and from Pancreatic Cancer UK.
Andrew
Andrew had an abnormal blood test during a routine health screen and later developed jaundice. He had a stent put into his bile duct and a few weeks later had a Whipple's procedure. Andrew shares his experience of diagnosis, treatment and recovery and his message of hope.
Elma
Elma was 69 when she was diagnosed with borderline operable pancreatic cancer, after feeling pain in her stomach. She had surgery and chemotherapy, and five years later, she has been given the all-clear.
Stefan
Stefan, a father of two, was 52 when he found out he had advanced pancreatic cancer that had spread to the liver and lymph nodes. He talks about the emotional impact of his diagnosis on himself and his family, and how his experience motivated him to help others.
Cath & Jonathan
My partner Jonathan (56 yrs) was diagnosed just before Christmas 2012 with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
Kevin & Sandra
Kevin shares the story of his mum, Sandra, who passed away only three weeks after her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. He talks about their incredibly emotional journey and how he found comfort and solace.
Amy & Cathi
Amy's mum, Cathi, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer aged 49. She had a Whipple's procedure but sadly the cancer had spread. She passed away aged 51. Amy talks about her mum's determination to live life to the full and reflects on how much she is missed.
Elliot & Denise
Elliot's mum, Denise, passed away a few months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She was 57. Elliot reflects on their journey to diagnosis and how the family supported Denise at the end of her life.
Alice & Phil
Alice's dad, Phil, was 53 when he died four months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Alice reflects on her dad's zest for life and his determination to make the best of things.
Vérène & her husband
Vérène’s husband sadly passed away from pancreatic cancer in February 2021. Vérène talks about the emotional impact of the worry surrounding his loss of appetite, his extreme weight loss at the end of life, and how they coped by finding acceptance.