Callan’s story
"I was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis in 2024. Up until then, I'd never heard of pancreatitis."
Tell us a little about yourself
“I’m Callan, I’m 33 and I live in Stoke-on-Trent. I have a 7-year-old son and work as a hospital porter. I love history, making models and exploring the outdoors.”
Can you describe when your pancreatitis symptoms started and what they were?
“Since the age of 14, I struggled with alcohol. When I was 25, I started to experience severe abdominal pain just below my ribs and other symptoms such as diarrhoea. I drank heavily for another three years and began recovery in 2021. My symptoms started to get better, but when I relapsed, they came back. I now know that these were episodes of acute pancreatitis.
In 2022, I experienced abdominal pain again which was just below my ribs, pain that radiated to my back along with a fever, high heart rate, diarrhoea, unintentional weight loss and fatigue. I initially thought it was food poisoning.”
What led to your diagnosis?
“I booked an appointment with my GP, who arranged a blood test and told me to avoid alcoholic drinks. Results showed my amylase levels were high (If the pancreas has been damaged, pancreatic enzymes called amylase and lipase can show in blood tests).
I was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis in 2024. Up until my diagnosis, I’d never heard of pancreatitis.”
Before diagnosis, is there anything you would have found helpful to know about pancreatitis?
“A lot of people know that drinking alcohol can harm the liver, but not once did I suspect my health problems were down to my pancreas being consistently damaged by my heavy drinking. Maybe if I had known about the possible implications for my pancreas earlier on, I may have thought more about how much I was drinking.”
How does pancreatitis impact your daily life?
“When I received my diagnosis, I had been 20 months sober, so the thought of not being able to drink alcohol again didn’t really bother me. I lost a lot of weight and now find I must be very careful of what I eat. I am on prescribed antacid medication (this neutralises stomach acid) and have recently been prescribed pancreatic enzymes (Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy) after being diagnosed with Pancreatic Enzyme Insufficiency (PEI). I now feel more validated and heard after pushing for this diagnosis for nearly two years.
Before being prescribed PERT, my weight was up and down, so I struggled to find clothes that I felt comfortable in and didn’t make me look unwell. Living with chronic pancreatitis isn’t easy. I live in fear of painful flare-ups. Now, things are looking up physically and mentally. My weight is more stable, and I can see the results of advocating for myself when I knew something wasn’t right paying off.”
Why would you like to share your story with Guts UK charity?
“I’d like people to be aware of the potential impacts of drinking alcohol heavily. Chronic pancreatitis is a life-long, debilitating illness, and it’s no fun to live with. I want to raise vital awareness and help to educate people. Remember, you know your own body best and it’s important to advocate for yourself if you feel something isn’t right.”
Getting support
If you are worried about alcohol use disorder, or feel you may need help, it’s important to speak to a doctor. Also, the NHS has a useful resource on alcohol support.
About Guts UK
Pancreatitis is a priority area for Guts UK charity. We fund research into pancreatitis that has the potential to change and save lives. Our Kranky Panky Pancreatitis Awareness Campaign each November builds a community of those affected by pancreatitis, comforted in knowing they’re not alone. Our expert information allows those with pancreatitis to take control of their health, and make informed decisions.
We believe it’s time the UK got to grips with guts. Your support takes us one step closer. Donate today.
