A gentleman received a pancreatic cancer diagnosis similar to R&B artist D’Angelo after detecting abdominal tightness. Dan Godley, 32, was diagnosed with stage three pancreatic cancer after experiencing stomach tightness. Following his diagnosis, he underwent Folfirinox chemotherapy promptly, but scans revealed the tumor entwined around a crucial artery. Subsequently, he was scheduled for an uncommon procedure known as Irreversible Electroporation, utilizing an electric current to eradicate cells. During the operation, physicians opted for a total pancreatectomy, removing his pancreas, gallbladder, and common bile duct. In a groundbreaking surgery in July 2022, Dan was declared cancer-free.
D’Angelo’s family recently announced the passing of the Grammy-winning singer due to pancreatic cancer. Dan believes that D’Angelo’s public battle with cancer will raise awareness about the disease. Reflecting on his own experience, Dan, from Forest Hill, South East London, emphasized the importance of early detection, mentioning that his late-stage diagnosis surprised many. Diagnosed in November 2021, Dan was informed that he had 12 to 18 months left. He proposed to his then-girlfriend moments after hearing the devastating news, admitting that the reality of his diagnosis did not immediately sink in.
Pancreatic cancer ranks as the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the UK, claiming around 9,000 lives annually. Despite being diagnosed at 28, Dan was initially told that treatment might not be feasible. Post-surgery in July 2022, Dan achieved cancer-free status but still underwent post-treatment chemotherapy until February the following year. Grateful for his recovery, Dan has since married Anna, resumed cycling four times a week, and returned to the gym. He expressed astonishment at the surgery’s success, mentioning the initial disbelief upon waking up post-operation and being informed that the tumor had been completely removed.