Lee Rawlinson, a 51-year-old marathon runner from Essex, UK, has been dealt a devastating blow. After experiencing minor health issues, Lee was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. His life has been turned upside down, and he’s now on a mission to spread awareness about this deadly disease.
Lee, a medical sales representative, lives with his wife, Faye, and their two daughters, Darcey and Marley. During Halloween, Lee received the heartbreaking news that he had pancreatic cancer, which had already spread to his liver. With only a few months left to live, Lee is determined to create “magical memories” with his family during what he calls his “last Christmas.”
Despite the unfavorable prognosis, Lee is using his experience to warn others about the importance of paying attention to their bodies. He recalls experiencing a dull ache in his lower abdomen in January, which he initially dismissed as stress-related. However, after visiting his doctor and undergoing tests, Lee was forced to wait 21 weeks for further testing. By the time the results came in, the cancer had already reached its terminal stage.
Lee’s experience has taught him the importance of early diagnosis. He regrets not pushing for further tests earlier and hopes that his story will inspire others to take action when they experience unusual symptoms. Lee also discovered that his grandfather had pancreatic cancer, which made him realize that there may be a familial link to the disease.
Lee’s message is clear: don’t ignore your symptoms, no matter how insignificant they may seem. “Get checked out, even if it seems like a trivial matter,” he urges. “It could save your life.” Lee is committed to raising awareness about pancreatic cancer and increasing research and support for the disease.
Despite his terminal diagnosis, Lee is living each day to the fullest, cherishing every moment with his family. He’s determined to make memories that will last a lifetime for his children. Lee’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and the need for increased awareness about pancreatic cancer.
