Chris Whyte passed away from Pancreatic cancer after not seeing “the signs were there until it was too late”.
The 44-year-old, from Glasgow, noticed back pain which was something that he’d experienced before – so did not suspect anything more serious.
His wife Sue Whyte is now warning others to “listen to your body” and “get checked” if something is off.
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Sue said: “We didn’t realise the signs were there until it was too late.
“We miss him so much – the safety, love, and joy he brought into our lives.
“This time of year, just isn’t the same without him.
“If sharing Chris’s story helps just one family avoid this kind of loss, then it’s worth it.
“Listen to your body. If something feels wrong, don’t wait. Get it checked.
“Early diagnosis can make all the difference.”
Chris passed away in June 2015, just nine months after being diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer.
The condition can be difficult to diagnose early because it often doesn’t cause symptoms until it has spread to other organs.
In most cases, it can develop unexpectedly with no family connections to the disease.
The signs can include jaundice, sickness, changes in your poo, losing weight, indigestion and stomach pain.
For Sue, now the memory of Chris driving home during the festive season to the sound of She said: “Chris would sing it every year as he came in, just happy to be with family.
“He didn’t care about the presents or the decorations – all he wanted was time with us.
“He worked so hard to give us a comfortable life, and Christmas was when we had that rare chance to simply be together.”
Pancreatic Cancer Action’s #MISSEDatChristmas campaign serves as a reminder to pay attention to early signs of pancreatic cancer that are often dismissed, like back pain, unexplained weight loss, and changes in appetite.
Pancreatic Cancer Action, Chief Executive, Joe Kirwin emphasises: “Far too many symptoms are overlooked.
“Through #MISSEDatChristmas, we want to prevent these tragedies and help people catch the disease early so others don’t have to miss their loved ones at this time of year.”
Common Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer Include:
· Mid-back pain (where a bra strap would sit and may be eased by leaning forward)
· Indigestion (not responding to medication)
· Unexplained weight loss (without trying)
· Changes in bowel habit (pale and smelly)
· Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, and/or very itchy skin)
· Upper abdominal pain (which may radiate to the back)
