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.
Nicola & Alan
Nicola’s dad, Alan, had several symptoms of pancreatic cancer before being diagnosed in 2019. He sadly passed away in 2022. Nicola tells their story.
Pippa
Pippa was diagnosed with a pancreatic cyst in 2010. It was monitored for many years. When changes were spotted, Pippa had surgery and is now recovering well.
Lisa, Nadine, Joyce & Robert
Robert was 72 when he was diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer. After seeking a second opinion and having chemotherapy, he was able to have an operation and is now recovering at home. His daughters Lisa and Nadine and his wife Joyce tell the story.
Lianne & Tony
Lianne shares the story of her dad, Tony, to help raise awareness of pancreatic cancer. Tony was just 60 when he passed away from pancreatic cancer that had spread to the liver, just under 5 weeks after his diagnosis.
Amanda
Amanda was 51 when she was diagnosed with stage 2 pancreatic cancer. She had surgery and chemotherapy and is now having more chemotherapy following a recurrence of the cancer.
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.