Plasterer's Back Pain Diagnosed as Terminal Pancreatic Cancer
A plasterer who attributed his persistent back pain to a pulled muscle or an uncomfortable night's sleep has received the devastating news that he has only months to live. Kris Cooke, a 46-year-old from Erith in south east London, had been experiencing mild discomfort for several months, which he dismissed as the normal wear and tear of his physically demanding job and daily life.
Sudden Hospitalisation Reveals Shocking Diagnosis
On January 13, Kris was rushed to hospital suffering from severe breathlessness and acute pain in the upper right area of his back. Initial X-rays delivered a series of alarming findings: his left lung had collapsed, he had multiple blood clots surrounding his heart, and a significant mass was detected on his pancreas. Within days, further tests confirmed the worst – the mass was advanced pancreatic cancer, and Kris was immediately referred to palliative care services.
His close friend, Louise Comiskey, 43, from Dartford in Kent, expressed the profound shock felt by everyone in Kris's circle. "He had a slight back pain for the last couple of months, but assumed it was a pulled muscle. He figured he pulled it at work or just slept funny because he just got a new mattress," she said. "Obviously it was very concerning and upsetting for everybody involved. It is devastating. The cancer is aggressive and quick."
Louise emphasised that the diagnosis was utterly unexpected, given Kris's seemingly impeccable health. "We are just very shocked. He is vegan, he does yoga and he has never had a health issue," she added, describing him as a "very kind and beautiful soul" who is "well-loved, well-liked, fun, and easygoing."
A Race Against Time: Hospital Wedding and Further Heartbreak
Kris had been planning a future with his long-term partner, Maria, 42, a mother-of-three and full-time carer. The couple, who were attempting to conceive a child, had already set a wedding date. In a poignant response to the grim prognosis, they decided not to wait. On Monday, January 19, they held an impromptu wedding ceremony in Kris's hospital ward, determined to marry while they still could.
"We wanted to get married anyway, that was the plan. Kris had found a ring," Maria explained. "But when we found out the news, we just didn't know how much time he had. We thought let's just do it now. It was nice. It wasn't what we wanted, but we are happy that we are married."
Tragically, the joy of their union was swiftly overshadowed. The very next day, Kris received further crushing news: scans revealed the cancer had already metastasised to his liver. Doctors now estimate he has just six to twelve months left to live.
Treatment, Fundraising, and a Vital Warning
Kris is currently undergoing chemotherapy in an effort to prolong his life for as long as possible. The treatment, combined with the aggressive nature of the disease, has left him profoundly exhausted and reliant on substantial doses of morphine to manage the pain.
To support Kris and his family, Louise and other friends launched a GoFundMe page to help cover future funeral costs and provide financial assistance. The campaign has resonated widely, raising over £5,500 in a short period. "We started a GoFundMe page and within the first three days we got £5,000, which was amazing," Louise said, attributing the response to Kris being a "social butterfly" cherished by all who know him.
Both Maria and Louise are now determined to share Kris's story as a crucial warning to others, particularly those in physically demanding trades. "He wants builders especially to be more aware," Maria stated. "He worked as a builder for years and they are used to having injuries and back pain. They need to stop ignoring it and get checked out."
Louise echoed this urgent message for the wider public: "It can happen to anybody. If you have an ache, even if you are fit and well, don't ignore it. Always get checked out." Kris's case starkly illustrates how easily symptoms of a serious illness can be mistaken for minor ailments, with life-altering consequences.
