This year, I’m doing something I never imagined I’d do: running an ultramarathon. That’s right—50 miles. On purpose and no one is chasing me. There will be tears, blisters, and many moments where I seriously question every life choice that brought me here.
But every step of those 50 miles—every painful, sweaty, slightly delusional step—is for Jan.
Jan was my sister-in-law, and one of the kindest, most quietly powerful people I’ve ever known. She faced pancreatic cancer with grace, courage, and more strength than I can put into words. Since she passed, running has become my way to carry her memory forward, raise money for PanCan, and bring awareness to this deadly disease.
I’ve walked. I’ve run. I’ve fundraised. But this year, I wanted to do something big. Something that felt as daunting as this fight truly is. So here we are: 50 miles for Jan.
Now, more than ever, we need support. Federal funding for pancreatic cancer research has been cut, and that’s not just frustrating—it’s devastating. Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with far too few treatment options and far too little attention. That has to change.
So yes, I may collapse into a pile of regret somewhere around mile 37. But I’ll get back up, because Jan never gave up—and neither will I.
Every dollar you donate goes directly to PanCAN (the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network), helping fund vital research, patient support, and advocacy efforts. If you’ve ever wanted to support me while also possibly witnessing a slow-motion trainwreck, now’s your chance.
Let’s do this. For Jan. For hope. For a future without pancreatic cancer.
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