Friday, 2 December 2016

The start



I consider myself a lucky guy; here I am with my lovely family. I work for great company, Microsoft, with amazing people. I have the best friends and family I could wish for.  Life was sweet!  This is a blog about my hopefully brief encounter with cancer.

November 2016 was a strange and testing time, character building I like to think, starting with a 'Yellow Episode' in Seattle, painful and debilitating. Initially it was diagnosed as Obstructive Jaundice, a generalised term for the symptoms.  In quick order tests and scans were carried out and gallstones looked like the most likely cause. A simple and straight forward operation was needed to remove the stones and unblock me.  However, what was found was a growth around where the bile duct enters the intestines - Ampullary Cancer. All the scans indicate the issue to be localised and early stages. My main worry is the potential for it to be pancreatic cancer which has very low survival rates.  Thankfully it doesn't look to be the case but quick action is needed to prevent potential spread to this area. The plan and my only option is major surgery to remove the affected area.

 Why the blog?   To keep friends, family and work close and updated, keep me from getting bored and feeling isolated. Also, hopefully a means to raise a bit of money for cancer treatment and research rather than wasting it on cards and flowers.

What's next? Major surgery (Whipple Procedure) which removes the affected area, part of the pancreas, the gallbladder, small intestine and part of the stomach and re-plumbs the whole setup, 6-8 hours.  Followed by an 7-10 day stay in hospital and a 4-6 month recovery period.  The date is looking likely to be 13th, yet to be confirmed.

Charitable causes:  I'm in the process of setting up a Virgin Money Giving page and will paste the link in the blog before I go under the knife.  Charities chosen:

  • The LAP R&D Cancer Charity is based out of Southampton University Hospital Trust, aims to continue its research and development of pioneering surgery to help early detection and survival rates.
  • Cancer Research UK

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48 comments:

  1. Unknown5 December 2016 at 02:11

    Dear Chris - I have had to read your story a few times as I cannot believe what has happened. I am sure you have caught this early and will make a full recovery. You are very positive and that will help you and your family cope. I wish you all the very best. Best regards, Alastair

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  2. Unknown5 December 2016 at 03:34

    Best of British luck mate: here's me thinking I had the biggest scar - you'll do anything to get a bigger one!! ;-) we're all thinking about you buddy and look forward to sharing a few beers soon....

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  3. Yossi Dahan5 December 2016 at 04:00

    Dear Chris - sobering experience and a difficult time, for sure. I know you to be a very strong fighter and an incredibly optimistic character, full of energy (Tiger..) and it appears you caught it in time. now its time to let your optimism, fitness and the best of British medical profession to work their wonders and hopefully back in the fold before long. My thoughts are best wishes are with you and your family and - naturally - let me know if there's anything I can do to help. we'll keep the fort over here!

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    1. Unknown5 December 2016 at 04:51

      Thanks Yossi. looking forward to you growing back the curls and the beard :-)

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  4. Unknown5 December 2016 at 04:42

    Dear Chris, Good luck with the operation. Be strong and look forward to catching up with you soon. All the best, Stu T

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    1. Unknown5 December 2016 at 08:03

      Thanks, I need all the luck I can get at the moment. Cheers

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  5. Unknown5 December 2016 at 05:56

    Dear Chris, Good luck with the operation and will look forward to seeing you soon at TVP.. All the very best Santhosh

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  6. Unknown5 December 2016 at 11:04

    Chris, just heard the news... there is more good luck than you can shake a shitty stick at from all your pals at Cisco. Wish you a quick recovery and another great story to the life of Clitt... not sure that's the best title for a book but you get my drift :-) Sharing your positivity and luck to get over this as quickly as possible.

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    1. Unknown6 December 2016 at 05:15

      Chris. That is a lot of luck 😉 Thanks, I'll include you in my memoir LOL

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  7. DJHoward5 December 2016 at 11:12

    Chris. I only know you a little and hope to learn more from you beyond the twists/turns of my interview :-) I love the attitude and story so far, and look forward to hearing more of what will be great and positive progress. Kick its backside, get back to work, there is email to read, spreadsheets to review, and deals to win ! But first the most important thing is you and those closest to you .. take the very best care of you and yours. Dave Howard

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    1. Unknown6 December 2016 at 13:42

      Thanks Dave, I'm certainly focused on the job in hand right now. Spreadsheets can wait 😊

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  8. Blair Galloway5 December 2016 at 11:40

    Hey Chris, really sorry to hear what you are going through at the minute, Sounds like you have a tough few months ahead. I knew those extra hot wings in Joes were not a good idea. Please don't come back telling us you had a full head of hair and that you were 6'5" before this either. looking forward to having you back soon when this is all behind, chin up and keep us posted on your recovery. Blair Galloway

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    1. Unknown6 December 2016 at 03:24

      I don't know what you're talking about, I regularly get mistaken for a younger and taller David Gimola 😉

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    2. Unknown6 December 2016 at 05:13

      Ginola..typo

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  9. Unknown5 December 2016 at 12:17

    Hi Chris, I often wonder why life throws us these curved balls but truly believe that the aim is to make us stronger. Being the action man that you are, I am sure that you will have this licked in no time. Will look out for your blog updates and do what I can to help lighten your journey. If you're looking for a laugh or two you could always start supporting West Ham! All the best, Keith

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  10. Anonymous5 December 2016 at 14:01

    Hey Chris, bloody hell, you cover one customer meeting and next thing…., so sorry to hear you are unwell and on a serious note, best of luck next week with the Op and with the upcoming couple of months – if you fancy a chat or a coffee then just shout – chin up and look forward to catching up soon - Barry

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  11. Unknown5 December 2016 at 15:25

    Chris, I don't really know where to start. But I just feel inspired by your positivity and strength. I know when as a partner and wife when I went through some dark health times with my husband 2.5 year back , you draw strength from your family and friends around you. Hug them close and don't be afraid to show your emotions. This will be especially important for your wife and your beautiful daugthers, because then they know it is alright to show theirs too. If you need anything just shout. I mean that absolutely anything I am only a text away
    Jane xxx

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  12. Unknown5 December 2016 at 15:40

    Hi Chris, you are such a big part of this team and business and we are with you all the way through this tough journey, whatever you need or if we can help you or family please don't hesitate. I bumped into Nik Topham this evening, we are already planning sailing for July and I look forward to another competitive battle around the solent with you again next summer ! take best care .. Jeff

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  13. Ruth5 December 2016 at 23:33

    What a lovely idea to create a blog to keep everyone informed. Everyone will want to understand how you are getting on Chris and will be wishing that all goes well. I'll certainly be a frequent visitor here. Best of luck and looking forward to seeing you in that busy Q4. Ruth x

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    1. Unknown9 December 2016 at 07:08

      Thanks Ruth. I'll be back for the Q4 glory :-)

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  14. Unknown6 December 2016 at 00:37

    Hi Chris, A rather dramatic way to get out of cycling in to work with me. Hope you are hanging in there ok and keep positive. Sounds like you are in the best hands. Focus on yourself and family and hope you get well soon. We will look after the madness here and look forward to seeing you soon. Sparky

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  15. Sam6 December 2016 at 09:52

    Hi Chris

    I can't tell you how much of a blow it was to hear from Mum and David about your cancer. My heart felt crushed for you all and what the next few months will entail. If I could have wrapped my arms around Sarah when I was told, I would have, generously. Ross (who neither of you have met - 5 years is too long not to have bumped into each other!) and I will be thinking of you all and, knowing your physical strength and natural aptitude to positive and logical thinking, I know you will get through this.
    Much love from us and we will of course donate or do something physically challenging of your choice to help raise money!
    Sam & Ross X

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    1. Unknown6 December 2016 at 13:31

      Thanks Sam. Looking forward to catching up with you and Ross. X

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  16. Unknown6 December 2016 at 13:14

    Hi Chris

    As others have said, not really sure where to start and what to say. You sound like you have a very positive outlook on this and the support of your family and friends will be the strength you need to get through this. You are always up for a challenge and as you say hopefully this encounter will be brief and you will be back on the bike and boat in no time. We will all be thinking of you lots and will look out for updates. We are here anytime for all of you. Sending positive vibes and love to you all. Diane, Paul, James and Maia xxx

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  17. Johno7 December 2016 at 00:51

    Chris, your old mukka Johno here, PM me your mobile number on FB so I can give you a call.

    Cheers

    Johno

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    1. Unknown9 December 2016 at 00:16

      Hey Johno, youve been listening to the beat of the Fire Brigade drums! Would love to catch up with you, it's been a while. 07769968489

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  18. Unknown7 December 2016 at 01:19

    Chris - it is very tough to keep this light hearted as you wish, but your approach and courage are to be applauded.The journey is a new one and will have it challenges but this approach will get you through. As someone who has experienced this - this is the only way to approach it - one day at a time and make the most of it. Love to the family ... if you want to talk I am always here. In the meantime when you get back to normal health I challenge you to come to the South West with your bike ... and take the hills at speed. The last time you did it, even Millie (our dog) was faster than you hah!

    Peter (Duce)



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    1. Unknown8 December 2016 at 23:53

      I was just taking in the scenery Peter and making sure I wasn't going too fast for you to take those shots of me doing some radical jumps on the bike. Speak before I go under the knife.

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  19. Phil8 December 2016 at 05:32

    You will win this fight! Determination, Positivity, Strength, attitude in abundance. Not sure about the good looks though ;o) Looking forward to hearing the good news post op at Christmas.

    Phil Rubins

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    1. Unknown9 December 2016 at 00:19

      I do hope so, I'm screwed if I don't 😉. Pah! You need to stay positive about the short bald look we my friend are awesome and handsome.

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  20. Unknown9 December 2016 at 03:36

    Hey neighbour, I'm gutted for you all. If there is anything I can do for you or Sarah and the girls please say.

    You are one brave and inspirational guy and I'm hoping that the procedure goes perfectly and that you bounce back from this horrible episode back to fitness.

    I'm so very sorry that this is happening.

    Thinking of you xxx
    Massive hugs to you all.
    Dawn

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    1. Unknown9 December 2016 at 07:07

      Dawn, thanks so much for the comments. You've managed to fix me many times with your Osteopathy skills. I may need some guidance in rehab. Hope to see you soon. :-)

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  21. Unknown9 December 2016 at 09:27

    Hi Chris,

    I so sorry to hear this news. Sending massive hugs to you and your family. You are a such a wonderful guy, always smiling so I know you will pull through this. Sending positive vibes your way and please let me know if I can help in anyway. Let me know if your ever in town and I'll take you for a drink.
    Take care
    Jules xx

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  22. Carl Dunk9 December 2016 at 10:14

    Chris. Sorry to read this mate, as a lot of friends have commented it sounds like you caught it early and I'm sure all will be good. Only you could have to undergo something called a Whipple Procedure - tailor made for a bit of Litt humour that one! All the best from Carl, Bev and family

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    1. Unknown9 December 2016 at 14:52

      Haha! Yes, I've yet to nail a good joke with that in, I'm sure there are plenty. Great to see you and Bev, I'm looking to catching up again when I'm not so yellow. Cheers

      Delete
  23. Ken10 December 2016 at 08:07

    Chris, first of all I wanted to let you know how shocked everyone was to hear your news. Having said that your blog-post is testimony to your strength of character and positive attitude - I’m sure this will be a huge asset to you over the coming weeks.

    Everyone sends their best wishes for the weeks ahead – all of us are rooting for you and our thoughts for your speedy recovery are never far from mind. The team is certainly diminished without you – and rest assured we’ll raise a glass (or two) to your resolve and positive attitude at the team lunch on Thursday.

    All the best with the medical procedure and once you’re recuperating and accepting visitors let me know and I’d be pleased to lead the convoy to the South Coast. Ken

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    1. Unknown11 December 2016 at 00:10

      Thank you Ken. Kind words and good to hear you'll raise a glass, sorry I can't be there. I look forward to catching up once I'm in a fit state. Cheers

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  24. Neil Barfoot11 December 2016 at 01:36

    Chris, wishing you the best for your operation tomorrow and recovery period. I know you and your positive mind can get through this inconvenient chapter in your life and that you'll bounce back soon. Once again thinking of you buddy from Neil aka "Colin" x

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    1. Unknown11 December 2016 at 09:30

      Thanks mate. Appreciate all yours and Claire's support 👍

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  25. Florence11 December 2016 at 01:46

    Hi Chris. It was really nice to meet you and your lovely wife yesterday. All the best for tomorrow and the coming few days. You are in the best possible hands and have a plan for plenty of challenges afterwards, although the 3 Peak is definitely not for me. You will be back home in time for Christmas and should be able to enjoy a Mince Pie as well then. Florence

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    1. Unknown11 December 2016 at 07:41

      Thanks Florence it was great to talk yesterday. You've helped so much already. You're in my latest blog post 'A stitch in time'

      https://chrislittsjourney.blogspot.co.uk/?m=1

      I look forward to your visit.

      Chris x



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  26. Unknown13 December 2016 at 04:49

    Dearest Chris and Sarah, I just want to tell you that my thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. My happiest years in the fire service were spent with Chris and I know he won't give in. All my love to you all. Bubba John in York xx

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  27. Arvin Parmar13 December 2016 at 12:57

    Hi Chris - Stay strong and I know you'll get through this difficult time. Arvin

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  28. Unknown13 December 2016 at 14:32

    So sorry to read this Chris. We're pulling for you here and hope to see the energetic action man we know back to full fitness very soon. After all you need to come visit my gym when it's ready......Tom Kelly

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    1. Unknown3 January 2017 at 13:33

      Thanks Tom, would love to come and visit. Power lifting may be a few months off yet though 😊

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