Family's Heartbreaking Plea After Father's Rapid Cancer Death
The daughters of a Manchester man who tragically passed away just six weeks after receiving a pancreatic cancer diagnosis are now urging the public to recognize the warning signs of what experts describe as the "deadliest common cancer." Andrzej Bielecki, a vibrant 58-year-old, died in February 2023, leaving behind his biological daughter Scarlett Bielecka, 28, and step-daughter Emilia Rocky, 27.
Remembering a Life Full of Joy and Positivity
Both women fondly remember Andrzej as an exceptionally positive, warm individual with an infectious zest for life who became a devoted father figure. Scarlett recalls cherished memories of wild camping adventures and driving lessons with her "great" dad, while Emilia describes how he instantly embraced the paternal role after marrying her mother in 2019.
Years of Dismissed Symptoms and Medical Oversight
For approximately three to four years before his eventual diagnosis, Andrzej experienced persistent acid reflux and indigestion symptoms that doctors repeatedly dismissed. Medical professionals initially prescribed standard indigestion tablets, which provided little relief. By August 2022, a persistent, dull stomach ache developed, prompting multiple doctor visits that resulted in further prescriptions of ineffective indigestion medication.
Blood tests returned normal results, leading to an endoscopy that revealed a hiatus hernia. Doctors considered this a plausible explanation for his discomfort, yet by mid-December 2022, Andrzej's condition showed no improvement, and he was discharged from hospital without definitive answers.
Rapid Deterioration and Devastating Diagnosis
The situation escalated dramatically on Christmas Eve 2022. Emilia recounted finding Andrzej in significant pain at her mother's house, noting he had lost substantial weight and developed jaundice. Suspecting a heart attack, they rushed to A&E where gallstones were initially suspected. Subsequent scans revealed a blocked bile duct and dangerously high bilirubin levels causing the jaundice.
An MRI scan followed, culminating in a life-altering phone call on January 9, 2023, confirming advanced pancreatic cancer. The family endured an agonizing wait for a consultant appointment, where they received the devastating news that the cancer had metastasized, eliminating all treatment and surgical options. Doctors gave Andrzej just six months to live and recommended end-of-life care.
Family's Emotional Turmoil and Final Moments
Scarlett described receiving this news as "the worst phone call" of her life, while Emilia noted that while Andrzej accepted the diagnosis with remarkable composure, the rest of the family experienced profound shock and disbelief. Despite the horrific circumstances, Andrzej remained determined to live his remaining time fully with loved ones.
The family embarked on several meaningful trips during his final weeks, including a campervan holiday in Scotland and a stay in Chippenham. Scarlett treasures memories of watching episodes of 'Early Doors' with her father during quiet moments, while Emilia observed his rapid physical decline—including loss of appetite, dramatic weight loss, vomiting, and immobility—yet noted he maintained his positive demeanor, never wanting to worry others or dampen spirits.
Tragic Final Days and Lasting Legacy
By mid-February 2023, Andrzej's condition deteriorated severely. After a visit to Bristol, Emilia drove him and her mother back to Derbyshire, where district nurses were called and Scarlett was urged to say her final goodbyes. Scarlett recalled finding her father "almost completely unrecognizable" in his delirious state, yet he still expressed a desire to watch another episode of their favorite show. Their last exchange was a simple, heartfelt "I love you."
Emilia stayed overnight, witnessing severe delirium, but found comfort the next morning when her mother announced Andrzej's passing. Entering his room, she discovered him with "a smile on his face" looking "completely different" from the previous night—a peaceful image that brought some solace.
Honoring His Memory and Raising Awareness
In May 2023, the family held a celebration of life honoring Andrzej's wish for no tears. Emilia later contacted Pancreatic Cancer UK, sharing his story and his desire to have his ashes scattered on the Camino de Santiago—a route he had completed twice. To honor his memory, Emilia, Scarlett, their mother Suzanne, and Emilia's boyfriend Jamie completed a 100km charity walk along the Camino, which Emilia described as "one of the best things" she's ever done.
"This cancer isn't anywhere near talked about enough," Emilia emphasized. Pancreatic Cancer UK confirms pancreatic cancer as the "deadliest common cancer," with over half of patients dying within three months of diagnosis. Approximately 80% receive diagnoses only after the cancer has spread, rendering treatment impossible.
Scarlett echoed this sentiment, noting that "it's not a cancer that people really talk about." Emilia concluded with a poignant reflection: "If Andrzej had gotten diagnosed any sooner, I don't know if it would have really changed how long he had left, but it would have given him so much more time to do more that he loved. He just didn't have the time."
