Mum who thought she’d seen her last Christmas issues cancer symptom warning

A mother who feared she may not see another Christmas after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer is now sharing her story to raise awareness of the symptoms of the disease. Bryony Thomas, 46, was given a devastating prognosis in December 2019, with doctors initially telling her she may have just weeks to live. Facing what she thought could be her final Christmas with her young daughter, Bryony underwent a risky surgery to remove the tumour that was considered borderline inoperable.

Consultants at the Bristol Royal Infirmary took on the challenge of operating on Bryony’s tumour, which was located on her portal vein. The surgery involved removing the tumour, affected lymph nodes, and a section of the vein itself. Thanks to the expertise of the medical team, Bryony survived the operation and has been cancer-free for almost five years now.

Despite the hardships she faced during her treatment, Bryony is now preparing to run the London Marathon to raise funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK. She hopes to not only support the charity but also to educate others about the symptoms of pancreatic cancer, which are often overlooked.

Bryony emphasises the importance of discussing symptoms openly with healthcare professionals, as early diagnosis is key to improving outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients. She highlights specific symptoms such as belly pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, changes in urine and stool colour, as well as new-onset diabetes, which may indicate pancreatic issues.

In her journey battling cancer, Bryony is grateful for the care and treatment she received, acknowledging the significant role medical professionals played in her survival. She urges others to be proactive about their health and not hesitate to seek medical advice if they notice any concerning symptoms.

Bryony’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and hope that cancer survivors embody. Her determination to help others by sharing her experience and raising awareness is an inspiration to many facing similar challenges. Through her advocacy efforts, Bryony is making a meaningful impact in the fight against pancreatic cancer and offering support to those in need.