We will always be grateful for the support Jeni gave us
Jamie tells the story of his dad's devastating pancreatic cancer diagnosis. His diagnosis came at one of the most difficult times when the UK went into lockdown in March 2020.
Jamie, mum Despina and brothers Mark and Andrew were supported by Pancreatic Cancer UK during dad Pavlos’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis. His diagnosis came at one of the most difficult times as the UK went into lockdown in March 2020. Soon afterwards, the family got in touch with our Support Line and were supported by nurse, Jeni until Pavlos very sadly died in April 2021.
“After a few months of backache symptoms Dad finally went to the doctor and had some blood tests which flagged an issue. Dad was diagnosed on March 21st 2020 over the telephone – a very direct and blunt diagnosis, giving him matter of months to live. The diagnosis was a shock and difficult to digest and accept. Due to Covid-19, treatment was delayed for 3 months. After this period, Dad had an 18-week course of chemotherapy, which was gruelling on his body and mind. Covid-19 made our dad’s journey so much worse – no escapisms or distractions whatsoever, which is not what you need when you are facing this situation.
Jeni was a stalwart of support to my dad and the whole family. She would call dad every week, sometimes every other week and offered unconditional advice on any matters relating to his condition.
“We were all devastated and shocked and really felt powerless to help Dad and the Covid anxiety we were all going through just made the situation worse. We saw Dad as often as we could, safely of course, and did what we could to rally his spirits. Mum was by Dad’s side as his 24/7 nurse and wife for the whole duration of his journey.
“After googling pancreatic cancer and discovering Pancreatic Cancer UK I immediately rang and spoke to Jeni. From this first contact, Jeni was a stalwart of support to my dad and the whole family. She would call Dad every week, sometimes every other week and offered unconditional advice for my dad on any matters relating to his condition. Jeni gave endless advice on his PERT (Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy) tablets and painkillers as well as being an overall pillar of strength for Dad and for us all. At a time when it is difficult to see light at the end of the tunnel, these connections mean more than just the weekly phone call. We will always be grateful for the support Jeni gave us!
“I also attended an online session organised by Pancreatic Cancer UK for people affected by the disease. It was good to share with people on the same journey as us, it was rewarding, helpful and comforting.”
If you, or someone you know, has been affected by pancreatic cancer – we’re here for you. Find out more about the support we offer.