Dying Matters Week 2026
- Written by Heather Archbold
- Posted: 6 May 2026
- 1 min read
This week (4-10 May 2026) marks Dying Matters Awareness Week, led by Hospice UK. This year’s theme, ‘Let’s Talk about Death and Dying’, encourages open and honest conversations to help break the stigma around death, dying and bereavement. Death touches all of us - yet it’s something many people still find difficult to talk about. Opening up these conversations can help people feel more prepared, supported, and less alone.
Why this matters for pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer is one of the least survivable cancers and sadly for so many patients and their families, talking about death and dying is inevitable. Given the aggressive and fast-growing nature of pancreatic cancer, many patients and their families are not afforded the luxury of time when approaching end of life.
For patients, the idea of approaching end of life can be a frightening and lonely time.
“There are moments your mind seems to protect you from.
But some things stay crystal clear.
I remember saying goodnight - not knowing it would be the last time.
Losing a parent as a child doesn’t stay in childhood. It follows you.”
- Jonnie Pay
Understanding what to expect - access the booklet
Our booklet ‘Supportive and End of Life Care for Pancreatic Cancer Patients’ is designed to help patients understand what to expect from palliative and end of life care. It also provides reassurance that patients are not alone and that there are many services available with the right experience to help.
Access the booklet
You can also order a printed copy free of charge.
Support through grief
We understand that losing a loved one is an incredibly distressing experience. Grief is deeply personal, and everyone processes it in their own way.
Sometimes, it can feel easier to talk to someone outside of your immediate circle about what you’re going through and how it’s affecting your life.
At Pancreatic Cancer Action, we recognise how important it is to access support during this time. That’s why we offer GriefChat, a free online bereavement support service with access to trained counsellors.
We also signpost to trusted organisations who can provide support tailored to your experience:
- Cruse offer bereavement support across England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- The Loss Foundation is for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to cancer
- Winston’s Wish is the UK’s childhood bereavement charity. Offering support to children and their families after the death of a parent or sibling.
Talking about death and grief isn’t easy - but it can make a difference. Whether you’re looking for information, reassurance, or someone to talk to, support is available whenever you feel ready to reach out.