A DAUGHTER is determined to raise awareness of the disease that took her father away from her so others don’t have to go through the pain she did.

Abi Stock's dad, Chris, who was only 54 was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2018 and sadly passed away just 6 short months later. His first symptom was a pain in his stomach which got progressively worse and he started to lose weight.

Unfortunately Chris’ diagnosis was discovered too late for life saving surgery immediately as his tumour was wrapped around a major vein, so he was offered chemotherapy in the hope of shrinking his tumour. Chris was then able to have the Whipple surgery in August which brought some post-op complications and left him in critical care, fighting for his life.

Abi, from Wickhamford said: “On 23rd September my dad passed away surrounded by his close family. Devastated and heartbroken just doesn't begin to cut it.

“This deadly cancer has changed my life forever and I don’t think I will ever get over this. My dad really was the best person, he was my best friend as well as my dad.

Coming from an extremely close family, it has seriously broken us, and anything I can do to help raise awareness I will grab with both hands.”

According to statistics from a recent survey, awareness of pancreatic cancer in the West Midlands is very low, where only 13% of the population know a lot about the disease.

Pancreatic Cancer Action are launching the first multi-targeted awareness initiative in June to try and combat the issue of low awareness. The campaign will raise awareness amongst the general public, pharmacy teams and GPs to tackle the issue from all angles and ensure as many people are aware of pancreatic cancer as possible.

The 5 year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is just 7% as it can only be cured if it is diagnosed in time for surgery. After surgery, survival rates increase to 30%.

Ali Stunt, founder and CEO of Pancreatic Cancer Action says, “As someone who has had the fortune to be diagnosed early, we need to make sure other people can have the same outcome.”

To find out more visit pancreaticcanceraction.org/about-pancreatic-cancer/symptoms/.