Tracy Corbett’s life took a devastating turn following a simple yet alarming statement from her husband, Mathew. After a joyful motorcycle trip across Tasmania with the Tasmanian Harley Owners Group, Mathew expressed feeling excessively tired. This seemingly innocuous comment marked the beginning of a harrowing journey, culminating in his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer just months later.
In March 2023, Mathew, aged 52, was diagnosed with the disease after Tracy noticed significant changes in his health. “Earlier this year, we were riding around Tasmania on our Harleys, but when we returned, he sat on the edge of the bed and said, ‘I just feel buggered’,” Tracy recalled. Concerned, she insisted on a medical evaluation after observing that Mathew’s eyes had turned jaundiced during a coffee outing.
A visit to the emergency room confirmed their worst fears. “We found out the next day that there was a spot on the pancreas, and it turned out to be a couple of spots,” Tracy stated. The rapid progression of the illness left the family in shock. Mathew began chemotherapy, but complications arose just four weeks into treatment. He collapsed and was later diagnosed with internal bleeding due to a collapsed artery in the duodenum.
Family Impact and Advocacy
Tracy described the experience as “extremely hard” for her family, which includes their three children: Zac (26), Joseph (23), and Chelsea (21). “I think it’s tremendously cruel, and it has highlighted how much our family means to us,” she explained. Mathew, a devoted family man, expressed deep regrets about not being able to meet his future grandchildren.
As November marks World Pancreatic Cancer Month, Tracy has taken on the role of ambassador for Pankind, an organization dedicated to tripling survival rates for pancreatic cancer by 2030. “It’s vitally important to get your symptoms checked instead of explaining them away,” she emphasized. Her message is clear: early diagnosis is crucial.
Tracy urges anyone experiencing unusual fatigue or symptoms such as back pain, nausea, or indigestion to seek medical attention without delay. “If you are an active person and you suddenly feel quite tired or have some random pains, go and get checked,” she advised.
For more information about Pankind and their initiatives, visit their website at pankind.org.au. Tracy Corbett’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of awareness and early intervention in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
