Pancreatic cancer survivor receives campaign award

Tom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017. Luckily, his GP acted quickly and within three weeks got him on to the operating table before the cancer spread.

Two years later, after major surgery and six months of chemotherapy Tom rode took on the amazing challenge of cycling 100 miles between London and Surrey to raise money for Pancreatic Cancer UK.

But Tom didn’t stop there. When the government recruited patients and carers to help develop a new cancer strategy in Northern Ireland, Tom put him self forward to share his experiences and be the voice of people with pancreatic cancer.

Tom is one of just eight outstanding award winners from across the UK.

He said: “I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017. I was fortunate that it was caught early and I was able to have the operation within three weeks.

“Despite the awful statistics I want people to know that if you have pancreatic cancer, there is hope – I am testimony to that.

“It was a privilege to stand up for Pancreatic Cancer and support those struggling with a very difficult diagnosis. So this award goes to those less fortunate than me.”

Around 250 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer every year in Northern Ireland.

Tragically, less than seven per cent of people with the disease will live for five years after diagnosis, making it the deadliest common cancer.

Pancreatic Cancer UK is dedicated to supporting everyone affected by the disease, by investing in ground-breaking research and through its Support Line, staffed by specialist nurses.

During Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, the charity is determined to highlight the symptoms of disease and encourage people with persistent symptoms to contact their GP – despite the pandemic.

Vague symptoms – such as back pain, indigestion and weight-loss – mean pancreatic cancer can be mistaken for much less serious conditions until after the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

The award was presented by Diana Jupp, the Chief Executive of Pancreatic Cancer UK, at a virtual award ceremony, attended by charity supporters and staff.

She said: “I was delighted to present Tom with this Campaigning for Change Award.

“I’d like to thank Tom for all he has done for the charity. He is a huge inspiration to all and his determination to help change the outcomes for those diagnosed in Northern Ireland is amazing.

“Our star awards are our way of showing our deep admiration and appreciation to those who have supported the charity so passionately, over the year.

“This year, it was more important than ever to bring people together virtually, to celebrate the Pancreatic Cancer UK community.”