Supporting pancreatic cancer

“It moved me to see his never-ending resilience and the trust he placed in me”

In my 10 years at Healix, I’ve had the opportunity to make a small but meaningful difference to many patients. Working in private health care brings many rewards, but it also has its challenges. The biggest challenge for me is not meeting my patients face-to-face. As Head of Clinical Operations, I have broad experience in patient care, guiding them through some of their most difficult moments.

One case that has stayed with me relates to an individual who was undergoing investigations for suspected pancreatic cancer. During my time supporting him, I was able to build a rapport and act as a dedicated point of contact. On several occasions, he shared his concerns with me and confided that having someone outside his circle of friends and family to talk to and explore his feelings with was incredibly helpful.

From our conversation, I felt a deep sense of responsibility. Hearing about his fears and anxieties highlighted how isolating a possible cancer diagnosis can be. I made it my priority to offer him a safe space to express his worries. He often reminded me of the strength and vulnerability that people usually feel when facing a possible cancer diagnosis, reinforcing the potential of how nurses can make a difference in someone's life.
 
I regularly contacted him to get an update on his situation so I could offer a consistent source of support in his journey. I assisted him in accessing cash benefits from his health care scheme, which provided him with some financial relief during a challenging time. He used this cash benefit to cover the expenses of taxi journeys to and from the hospital, which was a practical way to ease his burden.

The day he received the diagnosis of inoperable biliary cancer was particularly challenging. He was informed of a 6-month prognosis without treatment, extending to 9 months if he chose to proceed with chemotherapy. Despite his satisfaction with the NHS care he had received; he had many unanswered questions and understandably was concerned about his options going forward. Since he hadn’t shared this news with his friends and family, he felt an immense burden in carrying this weight alone.

To help support him, I discussed the possibility of sourcing a second medical opinion. He didn’t realise this was an option and was very grateful. I was determined to help him explore all potential avenues, acknowledging that, while it may not change the outcome, it could help give him a sense of control. Referring him to an independent oncology specialist for a second opinion felt like a significant step. The oncologist’s secretary contacted him the same day. Their prompt action in securing the transfer of his notes from the NHS for further review reassured us. Knowing that he would see a consultant within a week of his confirmed NHS diagnosis was such a relief.

Following his second medical opinion, the original diagnosis changed. The new specialists recommended a different course of treatment with the potential to induce remission, which offered him some hope, which he was grateful for. He responded well to the new treatment. Witnessing this positive development was incredibly rewarding. I felt fulfilled that my support had such an impact on the outcome of his care and treatment.

It moved me to see his never ending resilience and the trust he placed in me. I will continue to support him through this challenging time in any way I can. His journey really resonated with me. It taught me invaluable lessons about courage, vulnerability and the importance of practical and emotional support to our patients.