When faced with a terminal diagnosis, most people understandably retreat into quiet reflection, but fifty-five-year-old Austen Cole chose to throw the party of a lifetime. Diagnosed in May with pancreatic cancer that had already spread to his liver and lymph nodes, the retired ceramic tiler was given less than twelve months to live. The devastating news came after doctors spent more than six months dismissing his severe symptoms as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 

Reflecting on this staggering misdiagnosis, Austen told The Bright Story, "Definitely ignore the doctors if they say it’s IBS!! If you do find out it’s terminal, then live like u never lived before and enjoy every last minute."

Austen Cole. (Courtesy of Austen Cole)
Tracy, Austen and friends at the wake. (Courtesy of Austen Cole)

Austen has taken his own powerful advice to heart, radiating a remarkable positivity that redefines what it means to truly live. Rather than opting for chemotherapy—which he noted would only briefly delay the inevitable while making him feel significantly worse—he decided to maximize the absolute quality of his remaining days. This vibrant approach culminated in a "living wake," which Austen cheerfully dubbed his "leaving do," held at his favorite local pub, The Dove, in Newport Pagnell. Over two hundred friends, family members, and former colleagues packed the venue to celebrate his life while he was still there to enjoy it. The deeply emotional event drew loved ones from near and far, including Robert Scott, who is married to one of Austen's cousins and flew over from the States specifically for the celebration. 

Robert Scott and Austen Cole. (Courtesy of Austen Cole)

Alongside his partner, fifty-year-old Tracey Nash, and his children, Lois and Lloyd, Austen spent the evening sharing laughter and memories with people he had not seen since primary school. He and Tracey were the last ones standing at midnight, fully embracing the joyous and triumphant atmosphere.

Tracey and Austen. (Courtesy of Austen Cole)
(Courtesy of Austen Cole)

Beyond the celebrations, Austen is spending his days selflessly preparing a secure, beautiful future for the woman he loves. Despite being on morphine to manage his pain, he has dedicated himself to major home improvements at their Wordsworth Avenue house. He has built a substantial extension, erected new fencing, and tirelessly decorated their living spaces so that Tracey will not have to worry about maintenance when she is alone.

Between these ambitious DIY projects, the couple is packing their schedule with exciting trips to places like Jersey and Alton Towers. Austen intentionally spends as much time outdoors as possible, determined to look tanned and healthy rather than pale and pasty. He absolutely refuses to let the illness dictate his happiness, carrying a defiant spark that leaves everyone around him in awe. Austen’s incredible journey proves that even when dealt the heaviest of hands, we still hold the undeniable power to choose joy, laughter, and an unyielding zest for the present moment.

Subscribe to The Bright Story and step into a world of hope, wonder, and humanity at its best. With unlimited access, discover powerful personal journeys, heartwarming family and animal stories, incredible discoveries, and the everyday kindness that makes life brighter.

#cancer#leavingdo#pancreaticcancer#terminalillness