‘Calling myself a cancer survivor feels odd’

Hi, I’m Adrian Pacelli, but my friends call me Ade. This is my journey with kidney cancer.

A Surprise Diagnosis: Gallbladder Issues and a Suspicious Growth

In July 2023, I found myself in A&E due to a gallbladder issue that required a four-day hospital stay. A CT scan confirmed the diagnosis, but it also revealed something completely unexpected: a highly suspicious growth in my right kidney, referred to as RCC (Renal Cell Carcinoma), measuring 2.5cm.

Facing the Unknown: My First Encounter with Cancer

At the time, I didn’t know how to process it. I was already dealing with the pain and shock of the gallbladder issue, so this new diagnosis felt surreal. I was transferred to another hospital for surgery to remove my gallbladder, but due to an infection, the procedure had to be delayed. I was moved to a quieter ward for observation, away from the chaos of A&E.

In that ward, I encountered others battling cancer. A young woman in her mid-twenties who appeared to be terminally ill and a woman around my age undergoing chemotherapy. She was losing her hair in clumps. It was heartbreaking and eye-opening. I’d never been this close to cancer before, and suddenly, I was facing my own potential diagnosis.

A Call to Reality: The Urologist Appointment

I had no idea what to think about the “suspicious growth” on my kidney. I didn’t know much about kidney cancer, and my mind was flooded with unanswered questions: What does this mean? When will I find out? But I told myself to focus on the immediate issue – my gallbladder – and take it one step at a time.

A week after leaving the hospital, I received a call with an appointment to see a urologist. That’s when it all became very real – and very scary. I kept thinking, What will they say? What will they do? Will I survive? But I reminded myself, It’s better to know. If it hadn’t been for the gallbladder issue, I wouldn’t have found this.

The Diagnosis: Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)

At my appointment, the consultant confirmed it was cancer. However, the outlook was good, and they recommended a partial nephrectomy to remove the tumour. My wife, in an effort to lighten the mood, had nicknamed my kidney “Ken” and my gallbladder “Gary.” The consultant laughed, which instantly put me at ease. I did ask him, “What if you have to remove the whole kidney?” He reassured me, “You can live and thrive with just one kidney.” His positivity gave me hope.

Surgery and Recovery: Overcoming Fear and Pain

Three weeks later, I had surgery. The tumour was confirmed to be a low-grade Renal Cell Carcinoma (Grade 2, pT1a). The operation went smoothly, and I was awake by 2pm. Strangely, my biggest fear before surgery wasn’t the cancer – it was the general anaesthetic. I was worried I’d either wake up too soon or not wake up at all. But before I knew it, I was out like a light.

The recovery was tough. I felt like I’d been hit by a train, and even simple tasks like getting out of bed were painful. It took about three months to fully recover, but I got there. My prognosis is excellent, though I’ll need yearly scans for the next five years as a precaution.

Post-Surgery: A New Perspective on Life

During my recovery, I received a call from the cancer nurse at my GP surgery. She asked how I was coping and shared resources, including a park run group for people affected by cancer. I haven’t joined yet, but I’m working up the courage to go. Talking about my worries isn’t always easy, even with family, but I know it’s important to connect with others who’ve been through similar experiences.

Survivor’s Guilt

At times, I’ve struggled with feelings of guilt. I’ve had major surgery, but no additional treatments, and my outlook is excellent. Calling myself a “cancer survivor” feels strange – I’ve been so fortunate compared to others. But I’ve realised that it’s okay to feel this way, as long as I use my experience to help and inspire others.

Staying Active and Motivated: My Challenges for a Cause

To stay motivated, I’ve taken on several challenges. In November 2023, I did the 100 squats-a-day challenge for Cancer Research. In 2024, I cycled from London to Brighton for Kidney Cancer UK and completed a 250-mile cycling challenge for Diabetes UK in memory of my dad. These challenges pushed me to cycle over 1,000km, including tackling Ditchling Beacon – something I never thought I’d achieve.

My First Scan: A Clear Path Forward

In August 2024, I had my first yearly scan, and it came back clear. Even with good news, the lead-up to scans is always nerve-wracking, and flashbacks to my diagnosis can sneak up on me.

Reflecting on My Journey: Keeping Things in Perspective

Looking ahead, I want to use this experience to keep things in perspective. On tough days, I remind myself of how lucky I’ve been and how far I’ve come. Life can be unpredictable, but there are always people and resources to help you navigate its challenges.

Sharing My Story to Inspire Others

If sharing my story helps even one person, then it’s worth it. No matter where you are in life, know that there’s always hope and support available.

Thank you for reading my story,
Ade.