Give the Gift of Time - Sharon's story

"When I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, I thought it was a death sentence,"

"If someone had told me I'd still be here six years later, I wouldn't have believed them. But I'm here to tell you there is hope." 

Sharon's journey began with symptoms she never associated with pancreatic cancer. It started with intense itching in her hands, followed by severe constipation, stomach swelling and later, excruciating back pain. She visited A&E more than once, but each time her symptoms were treated individually rather than recognised as signs of pancreatic cancer. 

It wasn't until her skin turned yellow months later that further tests revealed the devastating diagnosis. 

Around the same time, Sharon also developed Type 3c diabetes—a form of diabetes caused by damage to the pancreas that many people have never heard of. Type 3c diabetes can develop before or after pancreatic surgery and often requires careful management with insulin and other treatments. Even now, six years later, Sharon continues to live with its daily challenges. During this summer's heatwaves, for example, keeping her blood sugar levels stable became much harder.

Like so many people, Sharon had never heard much about pancreatic cancer and didn't recognise the warning signs, including that new-onset diabetes can sometimes be a symptom of pancreatic cancer.

"The doctor told my daughter that yes, I was going to die. That moment broke me."

But Sharon refused to give up hope.

After undergoing a Whipple procedure followed by months of gruelling chemotherapy during the COVID pandemic, Sharon faced every challenge with determination.

Today, six years on, Sharon is living proof that earlier diagnosis saves lives.

She's welcomed a new grandchild into the family, who is now five years old. She's celebrated each of her three children's 30th birthdays and was there to celebrate her husband's 60th birthday, precious milestones she once feared she would never see.

But it's not only the big moments she treasures.

"I don't take the everyday moments for granted anymore. I love listening to the birds singing in the morning, spending time with my family and appreciating each day as it comes. I live every day with gratitude."

Looking back, Sharon knows just how important awareness is.

"I didn't know the symptoms before my diagnosis. That's why I'm sharing my story. I want more people to recognise the signs, seek medical advice and have the best chance of an early diagnosis. I want people to know that survival is possible."

Sharon's story is a reminder of why Pancreatic Cancer Action exists.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the hardest cancers to diagnose because its symptoms are often vague and easily mistaken for other conditions. Too many people are not diagnosed early, meaning they miss the opportunity for life-saving treatment.

But early diagnosis saves lives.

It can mean more treatment options.

More hope.

More birthdays.

More family celebrations.

More grandchildren.

More everyday moments.

More memories.

More time.

Give the gift of time

This summer, we're asking you to help more people receive an early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Your donation will help Pancreatic Cancer Action: Raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer. Educate healthcare professionals to support earlier diagnosis. Provide trusted information and support for patients and families. Help more people receive an early diagnosis, when treatment is still possible. Or you can Give Your Time for Time by taking on a fundraising challenge, hosting a summer event or bringing your community together in support of early diagnosis.

Every donation helps more people recognise the signs.

Every fundraiser helps spread life-saving awareness.

Every action helps more people receive an early diagnosis.

Together, we can help more families hear the words Sharon can say today:

"I'm still here."

Please support our Give the Gift of Time Summer Appeal today.

Because the greatest gift you can give a family isn't simply hope.

It's the chance of an early diagnosis.

It's more time.