A St Helens family is in mourning after the sudden death of a beloved father. Yan Hodkinson, 47, died on Sunday, December 14, just days before Christmas. His partner of 29 years, Jayne Chisnall, is sharing his story.
Yan and Jayne met as teenagers. They had three children together. Their children are Jack, 20, Ruby, 16, and Max, 11. Jayne says Yan was the “life and soul of every party.” He was known for his pranks and making people laugh.
Yan’s health struggles began last year. In 2023, he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. This is a serious bowel disease. He managed the condition, but new problems arose.
In December 2023, Yan developed a hoarse voice. He thought it was a side effect of his medication. The hoarseness did not go away. Then, he began getting frequent sore throats.
By April 2024, Yan was being treated for tonsillitis. Jayne noticed swelling in his neck. She urged him to seek more help. She felt something was seriously wrong.
Doctors made a devastating discovery in June 2024. Yan was diagnosed with stage four squamous cell carcinoma. This is a type of skin cancer. Doctors explained the cancer started in his left tonsil. It had spread to his tongue, jaw, and neck.
Yan began aggressive treatment. His family had hope. He was even allowed to return home, seeming to improve.
Tragedy struck on December 14. Yan suffered a “carotid blowout.” This is a rupture of the carotid artery in the neck. It is a rare complication of advanced head and neck cancers. The bleeding was severe. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Jayne is heartbroken. She explained the treatment damaged the arteries in his neck. The cancer tumors were wrapped around them. This combination proved fatal.
Yan was a self-employed electrician. He could not work during his illness. Jayne took sick leave to care for him. The family lost their income.
A JustGiving page has been set up to help. The funds will cover funeral costs and support the children. Jayne also wants to raise awareness. Yan’s cancer was linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
The family faces a difficult Christmas. Jayne says the children are heartbroken but strong. She says they will miss Yan forever.
