What began as what he thought was routine heartburn quickly turned into a life-altering diagnosis for father-of-two Zack Van Aarde, 41, from South Devon.
Known for keeping fit and competing in ultramarathons, Zack never imagined that persistent acid reflux could be the first sign of a much more serious problem.
Back in 2024, Zack started experiencing frequent acid reflux—a common culprit behind indigestion—but dismissed it as minor.
His GP prescribed omeprazole, a medication designed to reduce stomach acid, but even after taking it, his symptoms didn’t improve. Things took a terrifying turn one early morning in July this year.
A Terrifying Morning That Changed Everything
Zack’s wife, Jess, 42, recalls the moment vividly: “I woke up at 5am and heard heavy breathing and a thump.
I rushed out and found Zack on the floor, vomiting blood.”
The situation was dire. Zack was losing so much blood that he could barely sit up, let alone stand.
Jess quickly got him into the bedroom and called an ambulance, trying not to alarm their children, Joshua, 10, and Hannah, 8.
Rushed to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, Zack underwent an endoscopy.
Doctors initially suspected a stomach ulcer—but the shocking diagnosis revealed stage four oesophageal cancer.
“It was surreal, like a film,” Jess said. “You just can’t believe it’s happening to your family.”
Understanding Oesophageal Cancer
Oesophageal cancer affects the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach.
While its exact causes aren’t always clear, men and those with long-term, severe acid reflux are considered higher risk.
Symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, persistent nausea or vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, chronic cough, and fatigue.
Experts warn that many cases are caught too late, as people often dismiss early warning signs as minor digestive issues. Tragically, in the UK, about 22 people die from the disease every day.
Fighting Back with Chemotherapy and Alternative Therapies
Initially, surgery was considered, which is typically the first step if the cancer is detected early.
But because Zack’s cancer was advanced, doctors opted to start chemotherapy to shrink the tumour.
Zack undergoes chemotherapy every two weeks, along with weekly blood tests and scans.
Despite the grueling treatment, he remains focused on staying positive for his children.
“It’s the hardest thing as a parent, telling your kids you have cancer,” he admitted.
“But they’re resilient, and they’re handling it amazingly.”
Beyond NHS care, the family is fundraising for supplementary treatments, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, IV vitamin C, and red light therapy.
Zack explained: “Chemotherapy kills all cells—good and bad—so we’re doing everything we can to give my body the best chance to recover.”
Doctors, however, advise patients to seek professional guidance before trying alternative treatments.
Rising Cases and Preventable Risks
Recent figures show that the UK has one of the highest rates of oesophageal cancer in Europe, and cases among younger adults are on the rise.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, heavy drinking, and obesity increase the risk.
Cancer Research UK estimates that around three in five of the roughly 9,500 annual cases could be preventable.
Experts also warn against over-reliance on acid-suppressing medications for heartburn.
While these drugs reduce discomfort, stomach acid plays a crucial role in digestion, breaking down proteins and protecting against harmful microbes.
Long-term suppression could increase the risk of infections like C. diff and even stomach cancer.
Staying Positive in the Face of Adversity
Zack Van Aarde’s story is a stark reminder to take persistent digestive symptoms seriously.
From what seemed like ordinary indigestion to a life-changing diagnosis, he and his family are facing the challenge with courage, research, and determination. “I’m determined to do whatever I can to give me the best chance for my family,” he said, embodying the resilience needed in the fight against cancer.