Stories of hope
Real experiences from people affected by upper GI cancers
Discover heartfelt stories from people living with pancreatic, liver, stomach, biliary and oesophageal cancers, as well as reflections from their families, carers and friends. These personal accounts offer insight, courage and connection — showing that even in the face of cancer, hope and resilience can shine through.
You’ll also find tributes that honour the lives and legacies of those lost to upper GI cancers, celebrating their strength and the impact they’ve had on those around them.
Whether you're seeking inspiration, comfort or a sense of community, these stories remind us that no one walks this path alone.
Chris Constantinou
Christine received her pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2013. Since then, her positive mindset and commitment to focusing on what matters most have helped her navigate life with the disease. Watch her share her journey.
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John Leung
About six months before he was diagnosed, John started noticing that swallowing was becoming harder than usual. At first, it didn’t seem like anything to worry about. Listen to John share his experience and the moment he realized something was truly wrong.
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Sandra Power
When looking back at her own experience, Sandra wishes that she had pushed her GP harder to order more tests and scans.“If there wasn’t a clear answer then it should have been investigated. If my sugars changed out of the blue, it should have been investigated”.
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Grant Rutley
Following a period of feeling unwell, Grant visited his doctor, only to receive news he never expected. Hear Grant reflect on the moment he learned he had biliary cancer.
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Debbie Moors
"I’m thankful to be a survivor of pancreatic cancer and I want to help put the spotlight on this disease, so more Australians are aware."
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Keon Stevenson
Not one to give up that easily, Keon sought a second opinion with another oncologist.
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Yuen
Yuen’s oesophageal cancer diagnosis brought challenges that often felt isolating. Connecting with others who truly understood became vital, helping her heal and rediscover herself.
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John Rowe
"After a routine scan several months later, to everyone’s amazement, the tumour had completely gone.”
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Sherry Austin
"By sharing our experiences, we can help newly diagnosed patients understand their treatment options and feel truly supported.”
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Ron Gibson
Ron is currently doing well and wife Jan is mindful that while their experience has been challenging, they have been fortunate to receive expert care and treatment which has led to positive health outcomes.
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Patrick Deehan
"If you or anyone else you know have been diagnosed with one of the cancers Pancare support, I urge you to give them a call to have a chat about their support services.”
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Don Wright
"Despite the terrible statistics of pancreatic cancer, we want other families to know there is hope."
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Want to talk?
Speak to an upper GI cancer nurse or counsellor, we're here to provide you with the support you need. Support available to anyone impacted by upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
