A marathon runner diagnosed with terminal pancreatic ca. ncer is urging others to pay attention to even minor health symptoms. Lee Rawlinson, 51, from Essex, UK, initially dismissed a dull ache in his lower abdomen as stress but later learned it was terminal pancreatic ca. ncer that had spread to his liver.
### Early Symptoms Overlooked
Lee first noticed the ache in January but delayed follow-up after initial tests were clear. By September, severe pain led to an emergency CT scan revealing the devastating diagnosis. Reflecting on his experience, Lee emphasizes the importance of acting on persistent or unusual symptoms, which might signal serious health issues.
### Raising Awareness
Despite his grim prognosis, Lee is raising awareness about pancreatic ca. ncer, sharing how early detection could save lives. He also highlights the disease’s hereditary risks, as his grandfather had pancreatic ca. ncer.
### Creating Memories
Lee is making the most of his time by creating lasting memories with his wife and two children, recently taking them to Lapland. He is also advocating for increased research and awareness to improve survival rates, which have stagnated since the 1970s.
If you or someone you know is affected, contact the American Ca. ncer Society at 1-800-227-2345 for support.