Lee Rawlinson, a 51-year-old father of two from Essex, received a devastating diagnosis of terminal pancreatic cancer on Halloween 2023. What began as a dull ache in his lower abdomen in January, initially dismissed as stress, gradually intensified into agonizing pain. Despite consultations with his GP and a referral to a gastroenterologist, the underlying cause remained elusive until September, when the pain became unbearable. A trip to A&E and subsequent CT scan revealed the grim truth: the cancer was inoperable, having already spread to his liver, and he was given just months to live. The same day he received this heartbreaking news, Lee, his wife Faye, and their children, Darcey (10) and Marley (7), carried on with their Halloween tradition of trick-or-treating, a poignant reminder of the precious moments he was determined to cherish.
The following day, Lee and Faye bravely shared the news with their children, explaining in simple terms that their dad was very ill. Marley’s innocent question, “Is Daddy going to go into the clouds?” underscored the heartbreaking reality of their situation. Despite the immense emotional toll, Lee’s primary focus shifted from despair to creating lasting memories with his family. He resolved to make the most of the time he had left, filling it with joy, laughter, and experiences they would treasure forever. This resolve led him to plan a surprise trip to Lapland, a magical experience for his children, who had never flown before. Witnessing their excitement and joy would be a precious gift for Lee.
While grappling with his own mortality, Lee has also become a passionate advocate for raising awareness about pancreatic cancer. He vividly describes his pain as a “scaffolding pole being slowly pushed through him,” emphasizing the severity of the disease and the importance of early detection. He laments the lack of progress in pancreatic cancer survival rates since the 1970s, stressing the urgent need for greater research and awareness. His mission is to prevent other families from enduring the same devastating experience. He encourages everyone to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention for any persistent or unusual symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis.
Lee’s story highlights the insidious nature of pancreatic cancer, a disease often diagnosed too late. His symptoms, initially mild and easily dismissed, gradually escalated until they became unbearable. The 21-week wait for a specialist appointment further delayed his diagnosis, emphasizing the challenges within the healthcare system. This delay, unfortunately common in pancreatic cancer cases, significantly impacts survival rates. Lee’s case emphasizes the need for increased awareness among medical professionals and the public, quicker diagnostic pathways, and greater investment in research for early detection and more effective treatments.
Despite the bleak prognosis, Lee’s spirit remains unbroken. He embraces every moment with his family, creating “magical memories” that will endure long after he’s gone. He describes their current life as “living the magic dream,” finding joy and purpose amidst immense sorrow. His unwavering positivity and determination to make the most of his remaining time are truly inspiring. He refuses to be defined by his diagnosis, choosing instead to focus on love, family, and raising awareness about this devastating disease.
Inspired by Deborah James, also known as Bowelbabe, Lee aims to become a vocal advocate for pancreatic cancer awareness. He has established a JustGiving page to provide for his family and to contribute to research for early detection and improved treatments. His goal is to leave a lasting legacy, ensuring that his fight continues even after he’s gone. He hopes to inspire others to be vigilant about their health, advocate for early detection, and support research for this deadly disease. Lee’s courage, resilience, and unwavering love for his family are a testament to the human spirit’s ability to find light even in the darkest of times.
