Nicholas Penney, a 48-year-old computer game prop designer from Norfolk, was the first patient to have robotic surgery. He describes it as life-changing following a diagnosis of esophageal cancer. He found out that he had the disease in late August 2025, a few days before his 39th birthday. Weeks later, physicians undertook the operation at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH).
Prior to surgery, Penney was treated with chemotherapy to reduce the size of the tumor. His cancer journey started after the onset of heartburn and anaemia, symptoms which soon informed the cancer diagnosis. He called this surgery “life or death,” which really emphasizes the severity of his condition.
The surgical team at NNUH used a Da Vinci robot to perform the procedure. This groundbreaking technology is lauded for its accuracy and precision as well as its minimally invasive approaches. The facility has made the Hospital the largest provider of multi-specialty robotic surgery at a single site in the East of England. This success is due to an amazing combination of new technology and significant capital investments including a kind benefactor’s donation of £2.8 million from the Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity for the robotic systems.
“Otherwise, you’d end up with this huge scar down the side. It takes a lot longer to recover,” explained Nick Samiotis, a lead surgeon involved in Penney’s operation. With the aid of robotic assistance, Penney was left with just 15 small keyhole scars, greatly shorting his recovery time.
In fact, after the surgery Penney says he was shocked at how fast he bounced back. Just nine days after his surgery, he was once again walking his dog. “I feel quite amazing… as soon as I’ve finished here, I’m off to take the dog for a walk!” he exclaimed, reflecting on his swift recovery.
Throughout his treatment journey, if Penney didn’t get a good afternoon nap, he was in trouble and literally battled fatigue. The great news about his surgery has completely changed his perspective. He shared an important message for others facing similar challenges: “I would tell my past self not to worry.”
The surgical team were extolled for their professionalism and expertise. “The surgical team were remarkable people. You’ve got to be positive, he’s a fighter,” noted a member of the medical staff. This sentiment underscores the growing confidence in robotic surgery as “fast becoming the future of surgical practice,” according to James Hernon, a prominent figure in the field.
Nicholas Penney’s experience serves as an encouraging reminder of the potential benefits of advanced medical technology in treating complex conditions like cancer. With the continued support of his family, especially his 19-year-old daughter Tabitha, he is hopeful for a brighter future.