Andy’s story - The importance of listening to your body

“It doesn’t have to be serious. But it could be.”

For many people, pancreatic cancer is a frightening thought. It can feel easier to put symptoms to the back of your mind, hoping they will go away, rather than face the possibility that something might be wrong.

Andy Rushton understands that fear. Having lost his dad to pancreatic cancer, he knew how devastating the disease could be. But when he began experiencing a mild, persistent discomfort, he never imagined that investigating it would change the course of his life.

The discomfort felt like a stitch. It wasn’t severe, and Andy was busy travelling and enjoying life. Visiting his GP felt inconvenient, and there was always a reason to put it off.

But Andy made the decision to get checked and ended up losing out on his round the world trip.

An ultrasound led to further investigations, which revealed a tumour close to the head of his pancreas. Andy underwent a complex Whipple procedure, and his surgeon gave him the chance to move forward with his life. Further tests identified high-grade dysplasia, meaning precancerous cells that if they hadn’t been removed Andy says, “my story could be very different”.

For Andy, acting on that seemingly insignificant niggle made all the difference.

Now, 19 months after surgery, Andy is embracing retirement in Spain. He swims daily, plays padel, leads an active life and has recently welcomed his first grandchild into the world. He is immensely grateful to his surgical team and to his wife, Diane, who has been his rock throughout his journey. 

Andy knows how fortunate he has been. His experience is not a guarantee of what will happen to others, but it is a powerful reminder of why we must never dismiss symptoms or assume that there is no hope.

At Pancreatic Cancer Action, we want everyone to recognise the symptoms of pancreatic cancer and understand the importance of seeking medical advice when something doesn't feel right.

Symptoms do not automatically mean cancer. But they should never be ignored.

Don't wait. Don't dismiss the niggles. Don't assume there is nothing that can be done.

Your symptoms might turn out to be nothing serious. But getting them checked could change your future.

Don’t Wait Until You’re Dying to Ask.