A woman from Gwynedd has shared her mother's tragic story in a bid to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer.

Kelly has spoken out about her mother, Gwen, who died after a late-stage diagnosis of the disease.

She hopes her story will help others recognise the symptoms earlier.

In late 2014, Gwen and her husband had just bought a beachfront caravan, ready to enjoy their retirement.

However, as the holiday season approached, Gwen began to experience subtle yet noticeable changes in her health.

She suffered from heartburn, nausea, and fatigue, which her doctor initially treated with heartburn and anti-sickness medication.

Although, her symptoms worsened, and she began to experience shivering, vomiting, and sudden weight loss.

In late April, after numerous doctor’s visits and tests, Gwen was rushed to the hospital.

It was then that Kelly received the devastating call that her mother’s symptoms were cancer, later confirmed to be stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

Kelly said: "Getting that call in the middle of the night, hearing the word ‘cancer’ was like being in a nightmare.

"I had no idea pancreatic cancer was even a possibility, but reading about it online that night, I was terrified.

"The symptoms fit exactly."

The family was told that surgery wasn't an option due to the cancer being too advanced.

Gwen pursued palliative chemotherapy as this was the only option available to her.

Although Gwen had two rounds of chemotherapy, in May her health deteriorated quickly.

Her skin showed signs of jaundice as it took on a yellow hue, indicating the severity of her condition.

She was admitted to the hospital once more, this time for the final time, and passed away soon after, surrounded by her family.

Reflecting on her mother’s journey, Kelly said: "I never thought I’d have to imagine a life without my mum.

"We were so close - she was my best friend, and she adored her grandchildren.

"Losing her so quickly was devastating, but if sharing our story helps even one person recognise the symptoms sooner, it will be worth it."

Common symptoms of pancreatic cancer, which are often misdiagnosed or dismissed, include unexplained weight loss, jaundice, loss of appetite, indigestion or bloating that doesn’t go away, back or stomach pain, changes in stool, and new-onset diabetes or changes in blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer in the UK, with an average survival rate of just eight per cent over five years.

The #MISSEDmoments campaign seeks to raise public awareness about these symptoms to promote early diagnosis, which is vital for enhancing survival rates.

Joe Kirwin, chief executive officer of Pancreatic Cancer Action, said: "Kelly’s story is a powerful reminder of how crucial it is to recognise pancreatic cancer symptoms early.

"By raising awareness, we can hope to see more people diagnosed in time for life-saving treatment."

Kelly’s dedication to raising awareness through Pancreatic Cancer Action honours her mother’s memory.

She said: "My mum would want us to keep fighting to help others.

"If our story can save even one family from this pain, then we’re making a difference."