A dedicated marathon runner who was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer is urging others not to ignore even mild or unexplained health symptoms. What he once believed were minor issues turned out to be signs of a devastating illness that has completely reshaped his life.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
Lee Rawlinson, 51, is a medical sales representative and keen runner from Essex, UK. He lives with his wife, Faye, and their two young children, Darcey, 10, and Marley, seven. On Halloween, Lee received the heartbreaking news that he had pancreatic cancer. Doctors soon confirmed that the disease had already spread to his liver, leaving him with only months to live.
Faced with a terminal prognosis, Lee chose to focus on creating meaningful moments with his family. He described the upcoming holiday season as his “last Christmas” and resolved to make it as special as possible. By sharing his story publicly, he hopes to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer and help others recognize its early warning signs.
“This will be my last Christmas,” Lee said. “I know what lies ahead, and there’s nothing I can do to stop it. What scares me most isn’t dying—it’s leaving my wife and children behind.”
Early Signs That Were Easy to Miss
Lee’s symptoms first appeared in January, when he began experiencing a dull ache in his lower abdomen. He initially put it down to stress and didn’t think it was serious. After visiting his GP, he was referred to a gastroenterologist but faced a 21-week wait for further tests. Routine blood and urine checks showed no cause for concern, and no immediate action was taken.
By September, however, the pain had become intense and constant. “I was taking painkillers every day, but nothing helped,” Lee said. “It felt like something was slowly being driven straight through my body.”
One afternoon, while watching his son play football, the pain became so severe that he went straight to the emergency department at Southend University Hospital. A CT scan soon revealed the devastating diagnosis: terminal pancreatic cancer.
A Message About Listening to Your Body
Looking back, Lee believes earlier investigation might have made a difference. “I didn’t think much of the ache when it started,” he admitted. “But I wish I’d pushed harder for answers sooner. Early detection can change everything.”
Doctors later told Lee that his grandfather had also suffered from pancreatic cancer, suggesting a possible genetic link. “Sometimes it’s just fate,” he was told—but Lee hopes his experience will encourage others to be more persistent when something doesn’t feel right.
“If pain or unusual symptoms don’t go away, don’t ignore them,” he said. “Even if they seem minor, get them checked. It could save your life.”
Making Memories That Will Last
Despite the reality of his diagnosis, Lee is determined to treasure every moment he has left with his family. He recently surprised his children with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Lapland and continues to focus on creating memories they will carry with them forever.
“I want my children to remember how much I loved them,” he said. “Even if I can’t be there physically, I want to live on in their hearts.”
Lee is also calling for increased funding and research into pancreatic cancer, pointing out that survival rates have seen little improvement since the 1970s. “That has to change,” he said. “Too many families are being torn apart.”
As he navigates the days ahead, Lee remains determined to live with purpose, love, and honesty—using his voice to raise awareness and remind others to listen closely when their bodies send warning signs.
If you or someone you love has been affected by cancer and needs support, the American Cancer Society offers confidential help at 1-800-227-2345 or through its 24/7 live chat service.
Please consider sharing this story with friends and family to help raise awareness.
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