Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info For mum-of-two Fiona Aldworth, 37, from Hemyock, life is busy, physical, and full of purpose. In less than a year, she’s gone from running her family farm to preparing for the London Marathon—after undergoing major surgery to remove part of her pancreas. “I’ve always enjoyed being active, but never have I consistently kept to going to the gym or running regularly, so training for a running event has been something new.” Before February 2024, Fiona describes her health as “pretty good,” though she sometimes experienced fatigue. “I would’ve said it was down to having young children and a physical job.” Everything changed after a blood donation appointment in December 2023. “Unfortunately, I was unable [to donate] due to low iron levels. I was advised to book an appointment with my GP for blood tests. It was at this appointment that I mentioned I could feel a lump in my abdomen. I had been aware of this lump for possibly up to 12 months but I brushed it off and thought to myself it was probably a hernia and nothing to worry about.” What happened next was anything but routine. “It was complete coincidence that two or three days later I felt very unwell, feverish, sick and not quite sure what to do with myself. I contacted my GP again and fortunately saw the same doctor I’d seen a couple days earlier. In which time the lump had become sore and was protruding all the time.” She ended up in Musgrove Hospital. “CT scans showed a large cyst (8x8cm) in the head of my pancreas. I tried my best to stay positive but it’s difficult not to worry a little bit. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best.” Fiona’s diagnosis hit close to home. “My grandad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and after a 17-month battle which included 11 sessions of chemotherapy and 28 rounds of radiotherapy he sadly passed away. He died peacefully at home with my mum who looked after him for his end-of-life care.” Her own cyst wasn’t cancerous—but it had the potential to become so. “I am incredibly grateful that I had surgery May 21, 2024. I had the Whipple operation which removed the head of my pancreas, gallbladder, duodenum and a small part of my stomach.” The aftermath wasn’t easy. “Recovery is pretty unpleasant. I had two days on a high dependency unit and five more days on a ward. I was fortunate not to have any complications during the operation or after in my recovery. I am now on lifelong medication to help me digest food.” In the middle of all this, Fiona found herself lacing up a pair of running shoes. “I started running just before my operation just to get myself in the best shape possible and hope that it would help me recover.” Then came a surprising move. “It was just before my Whipple surgery I entered for a ballot place in the London Marathon. I never actually thought I would get a place. With pancreatic cancer being the main charity this year it seemed like it was just meant to be—with my luckiest escape and losing Grandad to pancreatic cancer. I couldn’t think of a more appropriate charity I would like to raise money for.” But rebuilding strength after surgery was a massive task. “Walking a mile after major surgery was hard. I started training in November/December and have gradually built my strength back up. There have been many times I have thought that it wouldn’t be possible.” Training was a slow climb, but she didn’t do it alone. “I have had an excellent PT instructor (Nancy Plimmer) to help me with strength training and a tonne of fitness advice and a super running buddy (Daisy Parker) who has kept me company on many successful and failed runs.” Her turning point came recently. “I’ve recently completed 20 miles in training which has given me the confidence to believe I can get across that finish line.” Now, what started as rehab has become something more. “Running started as a point to prove to myself that I will be fine and that my body is strong. I now think it will be a hobby of mine for a long time to come. It is something I deeply enjoy and have found I like it more than I ever thought I would.” And yes, she’s already thinking ahead. “I plan to enter more races in the future, but maybe not quite as far.” Fiona doesn’t sugar-coat what the last year has meant. “I think I have been incredibly unlucky to have gone through this process, but incredibly lucky for it to have the outcome it has.” And she has a message for others: “I ignored the lump I could feel for nearly 12 months. If something feels different, go and get it checked.” She also urges others to lean on people when things get tough. “I think it is important if you’re going through something similar to lean on close friends and family for support. Don’t ever try to go through it alone.” As the London Marathon draws near, Fiona’s ready to mark a turning point. “I have been to watch the London Marathon and I am looking forward to being part of the incredible atmosphere there is on the day. I can’t wait to get one foot across that finish line. I hope it makes my family proud.” For Fiona, this isn’t just a race. “I will use the marathon to mark the end of a tough 12 months but the beginning of a new chapter of better health and hopefully lots more running.”