In a stunning display of resilience and determination, 60-year-old Dawn Clayton from Caerleon, Newport, has trekked over 62 miles in the spectacular Alps, transforming her harrowing experience with pancreatic cancer into a powerful message of hope and awareness.

Dawn's journey began in 2014 during a family holiday in Majorca when she was struck by excruciating abdominal pain. Initially dismissing it as mere indigestion, she quickly found herself in a hospital after the pain became unbearable. Tests revealed the shocking news: cancerous cysts had developed on her pancreas.

Reflecting on her diagnosis, Dawn admitted, "I was terrified and in shock. Being a former nurse gave me some insight, but it certainly did not prepare me for this." Fortunately, the cancer was caught at an early stage, allowing Dawn to undergo a Whipple procedure in Newcastle, which involved the removal of parts of her pancreas and other affected organs.

After her surgery and a grueling five-month regimen of chemotherapy, Dawn hoped to return to her nursing career, a profession she was passionate about. She enrolled at university to complete her re-registration but faced a major setback when, shortly before graduation, she was struck by familiar pain. Subsequent scans revealed the terrifying news of pre-cancerous cysts once again.

In January 2021, Dawn underwent two surgeries to remove her pancreas and spleen, a drastic measure that has altered her life but also empowered her. Now, several years later, she lives with diabetes but has adapted to her new lifestyle and is an embodiment of courage.

Dawn's recent trek across the Alps is not just a personal triumph; it is a mission to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research. "I want people to understand the signs and symptoms," she urges. "Too often, pancreatic cancer is diagnosed too late because its symptoms can be vague and easily mistaken for other conditions."

Pancreatic cancer often presents no symptoms in its early stages, making it notoriously difficult to diagnose. As more people learn about the disease through personal stories like Dawn's, awareness and early detection could improve outcomes for countless individuals.

Dawn's incredible story underscores the importance of resilience and community, reminding us that even in the face of life-threatening challenges, one can rise above and inspire others in the process. Her remarkable journey is not just a testament to her strength but also a clarion call for action against a disease that affects so many.

As she continues to advocate for research funding, Dawn serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even after facing unimaginable pain, one can still conquer mountains—both literally and figuratively.