A marathon runner who has been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer is encouraging everyone to pay attention to even the slightest symptoms after he experienced what he initially believed were minor health concerns. This shocking diagnosis has transformed his life, motivating him to spread awareness about this lethal illness.
A Shocking Diagnosis: Terminal Pancreatic Cancer
Lee Rawlinson, 51, a dedicated marathon runner and medical sales representative, resides in Essex, UK, with his wife, Faye, and their two children, Darcey, 10, and Marley, seven. On Halloween, Lee received the heartbreaking news of his pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Doctors informed him that the disease had already metastasized to his liver, leaving him with only a few months to live.
In spite of the dire prognosis, Lee has chosen to concentrate on creating “magical memories” with his family during what he refers to as his “last Christmas.” The father of two has since shared his experience to raise awareness about the disease, hoping to assist others in avoiding a similar outcome.
“This will be my last Christmas,” Lee expressed. “I’m confronting the jaws of death. I’m heading straight toward it, and there’s nothing I can do to change that. But my greatest fear isn’t death itself; it’s the thought of leaving my children and my wife behind.
The Initial Signs of Pancreatic Cancer
Lee’s experience started in January when he felt a persistent ache in his lower abdomen. He initially brushed it off as discomfort from stress. Even after consulting his GP and getting a referral to a gastroenterologist, he encountered a 21-week delay for additional testing. His first blood and urine tests returned normal results, resulting in no prompt follow-up.
By September, the pain had become unbearable. “I was taking painkillers every day, but they weren’t effective. It felt as if someone was gradually pushing a scaffolding pole right through me,” Lee recounted. A week later, while at his son’s football practice, the intense pain forced him to go to the emergency room at Southend University Hospital. A CT scan soon after uncovered the heartbreaking reality: terminal pancreatic cancer.
Raising Awareness for Pancreatic Cancer
Looking back on his journey, Lee emphasized the importance of listening to your body and responding to unusual symptoms. “I didn’t think much of it when the dull ache began,” he confessed. “But I regret not paying more attention and advocating for further tests sooner. An early diagnosis could truly change everything.”
Lee discovered that his grandfather was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, which suggested a genetic link. “The consultant mentioned that sometimes it’s just your fate,” Lee shared. He hopes that by sharing his experience, he can motivate others to pay attention to even the slightest symptoms.
“If you notice ongoing pain or any unusual signs, don’t ignore them,” Lee advised. “Make sure to get checked, even if it seems trivial. It could save your life.”
Creating Memories in the Face of a Terminal Illness
Even with the bleak prognosis, Lee has chosen to focus on making the most of his time with family. He surprised his kids with a trip to Lapland and is committed to building unforgettable memories for them. “I want to be present for my children, even if it’s just in their memories,” he expressed.
He also highlighted the importance of increased research and support for pancreatic cancer. “Survival rates for pancreatic cancer have hardly changed since the 1970s. This needs to improve,” Lee stated. “We need to raise awareness so that this illness doesn’t devastate more young families.”
Lee strives to live each day to the fullest, balancing the harsh truth of his diagnosis with the love and happiness he shares with his family. He remains a passionate advocate for awareness and early detection, urging others to respond promptly when their bodies signal distress.
If you have been impacted by any of these concerns and wish to talk to someone confidentially, reach out to the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or through their 24/7 live chat option.
