Clair Abbott from Cynwyd, Corwen is taking on pancreatic cancer – the deadliest common cancer – through a non-stop 630 mile hike around the South-West Coastal Footpath starting on Monday 14th April.
She is determined to raise much needed funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK, which will go towards vital research into early diagnosis and treatment, as well as support for those affected by the disease.
Clair has chosen to support the charity because she has lost both her mother and husband to the disease, as would like to raise funds and much needed awareness of symptoms!
Clair said: “I think this could make a huge difference. I originally planned to complete this challenge in 2023, in memory of my mum on the 30th anniversary of her passing. But in a cruel twist of fate, my darling husband Richard Abbott was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer early that year. Before he passed away in July 2024, he told me it was his wish that I continue as originally planned and complete this mammoth hike, not only to raise funds but to raise awareness.”
Pancreatic cancer is the deadliest common cancer in the UK, with more than half of people with the disease dying within just three months of diagnosis. Survival rates for pancreatic cancer have barely improved in 50 years – in stark contrast to the welcome progress made in outcomes for many other types of cancer.
Vague symptoms – including persistent indigestion, back or tummy pain, unexpected weight loss and changes to poo – mean pancreatic cancer is very difficult to diagnose in its early stages and, currently, there are no screening programmes or early detection tests to help doctors. Tragically, 80% of people are diagnosed too late for lifesaving treatment.
Pancreatic Cancer UK is taking on this devastating cancer by investing in ground-breaking research, and by supporting patients and their loved ones through its Support Line staffed entirely by specialist pancreatic cancer nurses.
Sue Collins, Director of Fundraising at Pancreatic Cancer UK, said: “We are incredibly grateful that Clair is supporting us and we would like to wish her the very best of luck.
“Tragically, 80% of pancreatic cancer patients are currently diagnosed too late to receive the only potentially life-saving treatment for the disease, surgery. Decades of underinvestment in research has meant that the odds of surviving a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is no better now than it was 50 years ago.
"The funds raised by Clair will help us offer support to patients and families, invest in vital research to help us see the breakthroughs we urgently need, and be a voice for everyone affected by the deadliest common cancer.”
*If you would like to support Clair, you can do so at justgiving.com/page/clair-abbott-2
For more information or to raise funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK, please visit www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/fundraise
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