I was diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumour (NET) in September 2025. At the time, the tumour measured 3.45cm and was located in the head of my pancreas. Like many people, my diagnosis came after months of feeling unwell but putting it down to the busyness of everyday life. As a mum of two young children aged eight and six, I assumed the fatigue and general discomfort were just part of juggling family life.
Everything changed when I became jaundiced. Blood tests showed my liver levels were significantly elevated, and I was sent straight to the emergency department for further investigation. Initially, it was thought to be a problem with my gallbladder. However, after an ultrasound and CT scan, a general surgeon explained that there was a mass in the head of my pancreas. Hearing the words “malignant tumour” was overwhelming, and at that stage I was told I would likely need intensive chemotherapy.
Living in Kalgoorlie meant I needed to travel to Perth for further testing and specialist care. I underwent brushings to help confirm the diagnosis and had stents placed in my pancreas and bile duct, as both were not functioning well. When the brushings were unable to provide a clear diagnosis, a biopsy was performed to officially confirm the NET.
During this time, I also developed Cushing’s disease, which added another layer of complexity to my treatment and recovery. Despite the uncertainty, I felt reassured knowing that a plan was in place and that I was being cared for by a team experienced in treating neuroendocrine tumours.
In November 2025, I underwent an 11-hour Whipple procedure to remove the tumour. It was major surgery, and I spent 14 days in hospital before being able to return home and begin my recovery surrounded by my family. The recovery process has been challenging at times, but I have continued to focus on moving forward step by step.
I am currently back in Perth undergoing 28 sessions of radiation therapy to help reduce the risk of the NET returning. While this part of treatment can be tiring, it gives me reassurance knowing that everything possible is being done and that my medical team is doing all they can to support me through this stage of my treatment.
Looking back, I realise how little I knew about neuroendocrine cancer before my diagnosis. Sharing my story is important to me because I want other patients to know that there are treatment options available, and that even after a NET diagnosis, there can be a path forward.
Connecting with information and support through NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia has also helped me better understand my diagnosis and feel less alone in the journey. For anyone newly diagnosed, my message is simple: take things one step at a time, ask questions, and know that support is available.
