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.

Real story

Jo & Joan

7 February 2025

Jo’s mum, Joan, was initially misdiagnosed with a pancreatic cyst. Sadly, it was actually pancreatic cancer which had also spread to her liver. Joan died eight weeks after her diagnosis, aged 61. Jo is now determined to raise funds and make others aware of pancreatic cancer, in memory of her mum.

Man and wife selfie, both wearing shades and standing in front of beach
Real story

Ben & Pete

31 January 2025

Ben's Dad, Pete, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 2024. He passed away at home in early November 2024, only 9 weeks after diagnosis. Pete faced many challenges but he and his family remained positive. The family is now keen help save lives by campaigning for early detection of pancreatic cancer. 

Real story

Natalie & Rosemarie

20 January 2025

Natalie’s mum, Rosemarie, struggled to get a diagnosis for her symptoms. Sadly, her cancer was advanced by the time she was diagnosed, and Rosemarie passed away nine weeks later, shortly after her 52nd wedding anniversary. Natalie talks about her determination to raise awareness of the symptoms.

Elderly man sitting on sofa holding toddler age child, both snuggled under a blanket and smiling
Real story

Amy & Eurico

8 January 2025

Amy's Dad, Eurico, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2023. He died in May 2024. Amy reflects on how quickly everything happened and the challenges of processing it all. She talks about her daughter remembering her Avô (grandad in Portugese), and her baby son getting the middle name of Eurico.

Real story

Georgia & Leon

11 December 2024

Georgia’s husband Leon was 51 when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He sadly died two years after first noticing symptoms. Georgia talks about the difficulties they faced and advocating for Leon to get the care he needed. She also remembers the wonderful support their young family had from the hospice towards the end of Leon’s life.

Man and daughter selfie picture smiling to camera
Real story

Emma and Martyn

10 December 2024

Emma’s Dad, Martyn, was the light in every room. Loving, kind, a karaoke connoisseur, with a laugh you could hear for miles. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 2024 and died shortly after in October aged 73. Emma reflects on the heartbreaking diagnosis, journey of many twists and the place her Dad will always hold in her life and heart.

Woman wearing sunglasses standing in front of field with sea in the background.
Real story

Alice

5 December 2024

Alice began to feel unwell while on holiday in July 2023. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and has since had chemotherapy and surgery. Alice is now back at the gym, gaining weight and looking forward to the future. 

Man wearing brightly coloured shirt standing in a marquee, smiling
Real story

StuartB

7 November 2024

Stuart was 63 when he was diagnosed with a tumour at the head of his pancreas. After a success Whipple's procedure and chemotherapy, Stuart has been able to get back to travelling and enjoying life. He reflects on his experience of the diagnosis and subsequent treatment. 

Woman smiling and holding bike and standing in front of field
Real story

Christine

5 November 2024

Christine was 56 when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She shares her experience of this diagnosis and her subsequent treatment. Christine also reflects on the satisfaction she's felt since developing a passion for art, a hobby that she started after her diagnosis. 

Real story

Jade & Tracey

3 October 2024

Jade’s mum, Tracey, was 55 when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, which had spread to her liver and lungs. She sadly died just three months after her diagnosis. Jade talks about the support they got from a local hospice, and how she has coped with the loss of her mum.

Real story

Kirsty & Susan

29 July 2024

Kirsty’s mum Susan was living abroad when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She returned to the UK to spend time with her family before starting treatment. Sadly, Susan died before any treatment could start, 15 days after her diagnosis. She was 62. Kirsty reflects on their shock at her mum’s diagnosis and death, and her determination to live life to the full.

Real story

Amy & Rosalind

23 July 2024

Rosalind, a retired community nurse, was about to start a new chapter in her life when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She moved in with her youngest daughter, Amy, so the family could support her. A year on from Rosalind’s death, Amy now tells their story.