The pancreatic cancer survivor credits Mr Pilgrim with helping her through her life-threatening battle, which has since inspired her to host Biggest Morning Tea events for Cancer Council. 

More than $4000 was raised by 300 people at the charity event at Eastern Park in Warrnambool on Sunday. 

Mr Pilgrim spoke at the fundraiser.

“Pancreas cancer doesn’t get as much publicity as other cancers yet unfortunately it remains one of the deadliest,” he said. 

“If we look at the data across the state the number of people affected is still low, with about 800 people each year getting the diagnosis. 

“But unfortunately two-thirds of those usually have cancer that has spread elsewhere - into the liver or the lungs or bones – and those patients are beyond surgical cure. 

“In five years there has only been 300 people who have been able to obtain surgery, which is really quite sobering and concerning.” 

Ms Guyett was one of those lucky 300.

“Karen was in hospital for two months recovering from surgery and to get through something like that you have to try and stay positive,” Mr Pilgrim said.

“You are able to change how you feel about something and Karen really is a great example of that positivity.” 

Ms Guyett said she was extremely proud of Mr Pilgrim for speaking at the fundraiser event. 

“He is a very high profile surgeon and a professor, so for him to take time out and bring his family here for the weekend is very humbling. I was absolutely thrilled,” she said. 

“Charles is a a very caring and empathetic sole, he’s a unique gentleman that I often say was sent down in a first class carriage, just for me.” 

Ms Guyett thanked Mr Pilgrim and the whole community for their support.

“I’ve had so much help given to me on my journey that I just want to give back,” she said. 

“I also want to help bust the myth that cancer is deathly and get in there and raise money so that science can advance and we can find a cure for all our future children and grandchildren.”