On June 30th 2025, our world changed forever when we lost my father, Shailesh Thaker, to pancreatic cancer. He was an important presence in our family, and his joy and laughter while telling stories of his childhood days in India, or his life after immigrating to America, is missed every day (as is his wonderful chai tea that he would make each morning for the family!).
To honor his memory, I am running the Copenhagen Half Marathon on September 20th, 2026 with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) team to raise both awareness and funds to fight this terrible disease.
The cause: Why PanCAN?
Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of all major cancers. The aggressive nature of the disease, combined with a lack of early detection methods, means that far too many families, including ours, are left with too little time.
I am proud to be fundraising for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN).
PanCAN is a leading force in the fight against this disease, focusing on:
Accelerating Research: Funding innovative, life-saving research projects and early detection methods.
Patient Support: Providing personalized, free resources and information for patients and caregivers.
Advocacy: Pushing for federal funding and policies that increase early detection and improve treatment options.
Every step I take in this half marathon will be fueled by the hope of helping PanCAN create better outcomes for those diagnosed today.
My Fundraising Goal: $2,500
The half marathon is 13.1 miles, and I am dedicated to pushing myself through every mile to make a real impact.
Please join me in this fight by contributing to this PanCAN fundraiser today!
Printable donation form - print and mail.
