A woman treated in Sheffield for pancreatitis shares her story and urges people to get tested as soon as anything doesn't feel right.

'You have cancer' were three words that changed everything for me.

At 50, healthy and active, I never imagined my life would take such a turn.

Six months earlier, after a family holiday, I felt a deep chest pain, which worsened and led to vomiting. Rushed to A&E, I was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. Further tests revealed a blockage, requiring an ERCP procedure to insert a stent. However, complications led to septic shock, landing me in the high dependency unit.

Amidst my critical condition, my family was told I had a life-limiting tumour. Though too ill to comprehend it, they were devastated. After two weeks, I returned home, managing my condition with a stent and awaiting further tests.

Under the care of a multidisciplinary team, months of tests suggested a benign tumour. My relief was shared by my family, lifting a weight off our shoulders. My consultant, Mr. Al-Mukhtar, recommended an extensive Whipple procedure—an eight-hour surgery to remove part of my pancreas, gallbladder, and intestines. The recovery was gruelling, with drains, infections, and weight loss.

Then, just two days after my 50th birthday, I heard those life-altering words: "You have cancer." Stage 2 ampullary cancer. The surgery had successfully removed the tumour, but due to its invasive nature, chemotherapy was advised.

I made the difficult decision to keep my diagnosis from my family. I didn’t want to be seen as "the person with cancer"—I wanted life to continue as normal. My husband bore this secret with me, supporting me through every step.

Chemotherapy was brutal. Gemcitabine left me nauseous, weak, and constantly battling infections. Lockdown provided an unintentional cover, allowing me to endure treatment privately. Six months later, clear scans brought hope, and I transitioned back to surgical care.

Five years on, every day is a blessing. Anxiety over every ache and pain lingers, but I am grateful my cancer was discovered early. Counselling helped me navigate the mental toll, especially after the constant medical attention ceased. My husband remained my unwavering rock, while Mr. Al-Mukhtar and CNS Heather Allen provided exceptional care and support.

My journey has been unique, as everyone’s is. But my biggest advice? Listen to your body. Subtle changes—unexplained fatigue, weight gain, or persistent pain—can be signs. Early detection can change outcomes.

Through it all, I stand by my decision to keep my diagnosis private. There are no rules on this rollercoaster—you must do what feels right for you.