What symptoms did Kris Cooke initially experience before his pancreatic cancer diagnosis?

Kris Cooke initially experienced back pain and shortness of breath, which he mistook for a pulled muscle or work-related discomfort.

What is the prognosis for Kris Cooke after his pancreatic cancer diagnosis?

Kris Cooke was given a terminal diagnosis with less than a year to live, and after the cancer spread to his liver, he has an estimated 6-12 months remaining.

What are the general statistics for pancreatic cancer in the UK?

Pancreatic cancer is called a 'silent killer' and affects about 10,500 people annually in the UK, with less than 11% of patients surviving for five years.

Home / Health / Plasterer's 'Backache' Revealed as Aggressive Cancer

Plasterer's 'Backache' Revealed as Aggressive Cancer

23 Jan

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Summary

Plasterer Kris Cooke was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer.
He was given a terminal diagnosis with less than a year to live.
The couple married in his hospital room before his condition worsened.

Plasterer's 'Backache' Revealed as Aggressive Cancer

Kris Cooke, a 46-year-old plasterer from Erith, southeast London, received a devastating diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer. Initially experiencing back pain and shortness of breath, he delayed seeking medical help, attributing his discomfort to his physically demanding job. X-rays revealed a collapsed lung, blood clots around his heart, and a lump on his pancreas, which was later confirmed as aggressive pancreatic cancer.

His friend, Louise Comiskey, described the news as a shock, noting Cooke's healthy lifestyle as a vegan who practiced yoga. Tragically, the cancer has since spread to his liver, reducing his life expectancy to 6-12 months. In a poignant moment, Cooke married his long-term girlfriend, Maria, in his hospital room.

Cooke is currently undergoing chemotherapy to prolong his life, though he is experiencing significant fatigue and pain managed by morphine. A GoFundMe page has been established by friends to assist with funeral expenses and support his family, having already raised over £5,500. His loved ones are urging others, particularly those in physically demanding professions, to seek medical attention for any persistent aches or pains.