A father from Torquay has issued a heartfelt warning about ignoring persistent health symptoms after receiving a devastating diagnosis that left him with only months to live. Pete Dickson, aged 44, was told by doctors in September 2024 that he had fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma—a rare and notoriously aggressive form of liver cancer—following months of severe stomach pain and dramatic weight loss which he had initially dismissed as a minor ailment.
Mr Dickson, who previously worked as a mechanic, revealed that his troubles began with abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss that lasted for nearly nine months. Like many, he attributed these developments to a possible stomach ulcer and carried on as usual, unaware that more serious issues were looming. He finally sought medical advice in July 2024 when his symptoms became unbearable and was subsequently referred for further tests.
A pivotal CT scan later that summer brought life–altering news: doctors discovered a tumour attached to his duodenum. Within weeks, a formal diagnosis of fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma was confirmed, and Pete faced a grim prognosis—his oncologist explained that, at most, he had three to six months left to live. The diagnosis left Mr Dickson and his wife, Samantha, reeling.
Attempting to combat the cancer, he embarked on a round of chemotherapy in October 2024. But things did not go as hoped. After just a week, it became clear his body was not responding to the initial treatment. Doctors then moved him to a 12–week chemotherapy plan, with infusions every two weeks, which led to some reduction in tumour size. However, a setback occurred during his fifth cycle when tests indicated dangerously low platelet counts, putting him at greater risk of internal bleeding. Treatment intervals were extended, and Mr Dickson’s situation further deteriorated.
The impacts of his illness and treatments have been immense. Pete reported side effects including severe fatigue and sensitivity to cold, often requiring him to cover up extensively just to go outdoors. Highly active and physically fit before falling ill, he now found it an effort to remain outside for any appreciable length of time and, on occasions, needed to use a wheelchair for mobility.
April 2025 marked another blow when a follow-up scan showed the cancer had spread. NHS doctors told him there were no further chemotherapy options left, sending the family in search of hope elsewhere. Samantha, Pete’s full–time carer, spent months researching alternatives and eventually discovered a clinical trial for a new drug and immunotherapy regimen in Tübingen, Germany. As standard options dried up in the UK, this study emerged as their final beacon of hope.
The couple aims to raise £10,000 to access the year–long German trial, including costs for flights and accommodation. Pete now spends much of his time indoors and away from many once–beloved pursuits like hiking and working on cars. “Everything I loved doing seemed impossible,” he reflected, emphasising how abruptly and profoundly his world has changed.
Despite their struggles, Pete speaks candidly about the mental and emotional toll, but also credits Samantha for steadfast support and keeping his spirits alight in moments of despair. Their ongoing GoFundMe campaign seeks contributions from well–wishers as they pin hope on opportunities abroad, with Pete resolutely stating, “I’m determined to beat this cancer and will do whatever it takes to be myself again.”
Cases like Pete’s shine a spotlight on the significance of noticing early symptoms such as unexplained weight loss and chronic pain, and seeking prompt medical assessment. Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma represents a rare challenge for both patients and doctors, with prognosis particularly dire when identified late. Pete’s story serves as an urgent reminder that persistence in seeking answers, even for seemingly routine symptoms, can prove vital.
The Dickson family is now navigating a future filled with uncertainty, but also determination. As Pete puts it, the possibility of accessing potentially life-saving treatment is “new hope,” however remote, at a time when hope is most needed. Those wishing to support Pete’s treatment journey can find more information via their online fundraiser.