Personal stories

By sharing their stories, patients and families are able to put a voice to their pancreatic cancer journey and connect with others who have been through similar experiences.

Share Your Story

Share your story

Judi’s Story

Couple in coordinating sleepwear snuggling with their pet.

Mark's Story

 women in purple shirts and hats smiling for a photo.

Marjorie's Story

Man wearing a hat smiling and showing off his big catch of the day.

Greg's Story

Carmen's Story

couple standing on a beach, gazing at the vast blue ocean stretching out before them.

Lucy-Anne's Story: A Story of Hope

woman admiring a floral painting in an art gallery.

Pam's Story - A Survivor's Story

 man, woman, and a little girl posing together, radiating warmth and happiness in their family portrait.

Clint's Story

Megan's Story

John's story

Abi's Story

FAQs

What were your first pancreatic cancer symptoms?

Unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue and abdominal pain that radiated to my back — this is how I knew I had pancreatic cancer. However, based on the pancreatic cancer stories of other people, symptoms may also include:

  • Jaundice or the yellowing of the skin and eyes
  • Pale stool colour
  • Darker urine colour

It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional if you observe these signs because early detection is pivotal for effective management.

What is the pancreatic cancer survival rate?

The five-year pancreatic cancer survival rate in Australia is 12.5%, and only 36.4% of patients survive one year after diagnosis. Find out more about pancreatic cancer statistics here.

Regardless, there are pancreatic cancer stories about people who manage to beat the condition. Success depends on factors like the stage at diagnosis, available treatments and the patient's overall health.

Can you live 10 years after a pancreatic cancer diagnosis?

Yes, but the 10-year pancreatic cancer survival rate in Australia is only around 5%. This underscores the aggressive nature of the disease and the need for ongoing research and improved support and treatment strategies.