Andrea shares her story after a routine test revealed pancreatic cancer.
My name is Andrea Scott, and I am a 66-year-old pancreatic cancer survivor.
At 36, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and took various medications, including Etanercept for 11 years. Concerned about potential cancer risks, I researched the drug, but my consultant assured me there was no known connection.
After retiring at 56, I spent more time in Cyprus and registered at a private clinic in 2013. Routine tests showed high cancer markers, and an ultrasound revealed a shadow. I returned home, consulted my GP, and underwent further tests. An ultrasound and CT scan at the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield confirmed pancreatic cancer.
Referred to Mr Gardner-Thorpe at the Hepatobiliary Clinic, I learned my options:
- Do nothing - with four to six months to live;
- Chemotherapy to slow progression;
- A Whipple’s procedure (80% removal due to the tumour's position);
- Intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy to shrink the tumour for full removal;
I chose the last option. Despite my determination, I feared the worst, and my family shared my concerns. I began chemotherapy at Weston Park Cancer Hospital under Dr Darby’s care. Though the treatment was gruelling, I stayed active, renovating a property with my husband. Keeping busy helped my mental and physical health.
After seven months of chemotherapy, I started daily radiotherapy. By December, scans showed tumour shrinkage, and surgery was scheduled for February 2015. However, it was postponed due to my surgeon’s illness. The operation was successfully performed in March. My gallbladder was removed, and, unexpectedly, the pancreas tail remained intact, delaying Type 1 diabetes onset. After five days in ICU and 13 days in the hospital, I was discharged.
Recovery was challenging. A week after discharge, I became severely ill and was readmitted with norovirus and a lack of necessary medication. Over time, with outstanding aftercare, I regained strength. Though I eventually developed diabetes, I received excellent education and support.
One month after surgery, my son and his friends ran the London Marathon, raising thousands for pancreatic cancer research. My husband and family also organised successful fundraising events.
Today, I am grateful for the incredible medical team, especially Mr. Gardner-Thorpe and Maria, whose support has been invaluable. My journey has been long, but I am here, thanks to them and my loved ones.