Gina Heslop
Lee Rawlinson, a 51-year-old marathon runner and medical sales representative from Essex, UK, received heartbreaking news during Halloween this year.
Despite leading a healthy and active lifestyle, he was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, which had already spread to his liver. Doctors gave him only a few months to live, turning his life and his family’s world upside down.
Lee lives with his wife, Faye, and their two daughters, 10-year-old Darcey and 7-year-old Marley. Determined to make the most of his time, he pledged to create “magical memories” for his family during what he believes will be his last Christmas. “I’m staring death in the face,” Lee said. “My greatest fear is not death itself but leaving behind my wife and children.”
Lee’s journey began in January when he experienced a dull ache in his lower abdomen. At the time, he dismissed it as stress-related. Even after consulting his doctor and a specialist, he faced long delays for further testing.
Initial blood and urine tests showed no issues, leading to no urgent follow-up. By September, the pain became unbearable, feeling like a scaffolding pole slowly piercing him. Eventually, a CT scan at the hospital revealed the devastating diagnosis.
Looking back, Lee wishes he had taken the early symptoms more seriously. He regrets not pushing for more tests sooner. “Early diagnosis can make all the difference,” he emphasized. He now works to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer, encouraging others to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention for unusual or persistent symptoms.
The diagnosis also revealed a familial link—Lee’s grandfather had pancreatic cancer, underscoring the importance of genetic predispositions. Lee hopes his story inspires others to treat even minor health concerns with care and urgency. “Even if it seems trivial, get checked. It could save your life,” he said.
Despite the grim prognosis, Lee focuses on creating cherished memories with his family. He surprised his children with a trip to Lapland and remains committed to leaving behind moments they will treasure.
He also advocates for increased research and support for pancreatic cancer, highlighting the need to improve survival rates, which have seen only slight progress since the 1970s.
Lee balances his love for his family with the pain of his condition, living each day to the fullest. His message is clear: listen to your body, seek help early, and treasure the moments with those you love.
