A marathon runner who found out he has terminal pancreatic cancer is encouraging everyone to pay attention to even the smallest health signs. At first, he thought his symptoms were just minor problems, but the surprising diagnosis has completely changed his life. Now, he is working hard to spread the word about this serious illness.
A Shocking Diagnosis: Terminal Pancreatic Cancer
Lee Rawlinson, who is 51 years old, works as a medical sales representative and loves running marathons. He lives in Essex, UK, with his wife, Faye, and their two kids, Darcey, who is 10, and Marley, who is seven. On Halloween, Lee got the heartbreaking news that he has pancreatic cancer. Doctors told him that the cancer has already spread to his liver, and he only has a few months left to live.
Even though the news was really tough, Lee decided to focus on creating “magical memories” with his family during what he called his “last Christmas.” As a father of two, he has been sharing his story to help raise awareness about the disease, hoping to prevent others from going through the same experience.
“This will be my last Christmas,” Lee shared. “I’m facing death head-on. I can’t change what’s happening. But what scares me the most isn’t dying; it’s leaving my wife and kids behind.”
The Early Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Lee’s adventure started in January when he felt a nagging pain in his lower belly. He thought it was just from being stressed out. Even after going to his doctor and getting sent to a stomach specialist, he had to wait 21 weeks for more tests. His first blood and urine tests showed nothing wrong, so there wasn’t any quick follow-up.
By September, the pain was too much to handle. “I was taking pain medicine every day, but it just wasn’t working. It felt like someone was pushing a metal pole right through my body,” Lee said. A week later, while watching his son practice football, the intense pain forced him to go to the emergency room at Southend University Hospital. A CT scan soon after showed the heartbreaking news: he had terminal pancreatic cancer.
Raising Awareness for Pancreatic Cancer
Lee talked about his experience and how important it is to really pay attention to your body and any strange signs it gives you. “At first, I didn’t think the dull pain was a big deal,” he said. “But now I realize I should have listened more and asked for more tests sooner. Finding out what’s wrong early can really change everything.”
Lee found out that his grandfather was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, which suggested that it might run in the family. “The doctor mentioned that sometimes it’s just fate,” Lee shared. He wants his experience to inspire others to pay attention to even the smallest signs of illness.
“If you have ongoing pain or strange symptoms, don’t ignore them,” Lee advised. “Make sure to see a doctor, even if it feels like nothing. It could really make a difference for your health.”
Making Memories Amidst a Terminal Diagnosis
Lee is making the most of his time with his family, even though things look tough. He surprised his kids with a trip to Lapland because he wants to make special memories for them. “I want to be there for my kids, even if it’s just in their memories,” he shared.
He also pointed out that we need more research and help for pancreatic cancer. “Survival rates for pancreatic cancer haven’t really changed since the 1970s. That needs to change,” Lee stated. “We need people to pay attention so this disease doesn’t hurt more young families.”
Every day, Lee tries to live life to the fullest, mixing the hard truth of his illness with the love and happiness he has with his family. He is a strong supporter of raising awareness and catching the disease early, urging others to listen to their bodies when they show signs of trouble.
If you or someone you know is dealing with these issues and needs someone to talk to, reach out to the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or use their 24/7 live chat.
Please SHARE this article with your friends and family on Facebook.