Every year, we reflect on the time since Dennis was diagnosed. Dennis likes to reflect on the number of days that he has been alive (currently 5086 days). On May 3, it will be 14 years since we were told he had pancreatic cancer and we never forget how blessed we are that he is cancer free. That year, we discovered how important it is to have a community to support you through the dark and difficult days. What we remember is the love and support of our community, all of you. The difficult days are there too but are overshadowed with good memories of meals being delivered, cards of well wishes, friends and family walking alongside us, and so much more. We were and still are blessed to have the support of so many. Thank you for being there for us through the worst time of our lives and for continuing to be with us as we help others going through the worst time in their lives.

All of you amaze us each year with your generosity, and we are so grateful that you continue to support us and are making a difference for everyone affected by pancreatic cancer. Last year, Faith Heals was the #1 fundraising team in Pittsburgh and #28 in the country with a total of $41,670! YOU made that happen. THANK YOU!!! Since we started walking with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) at PurpleStride, Faith Heals has raised over $284,000. That is absolutely amazing! You are helping PanCAN to fund their vital programs and are helping pancreatic cancer patients to thrive. You have also contributed to the survival rate increasing from 6% in 2010 to 13% this year. We are celebrating this milestone, but the number is still way too low and we have a long way to go.

Last month, we attended the PanCAN all staff meeting to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the organization. Dennis had the opportunity to sit on a panel for the meeting and spoke of hope and how each one of us is providing it to the pancreatic cancer community.

Please help us to provide hope and inspiration for current and future pancreatic cancer patients. Each one of them deserves the opportunity to thrive.

PurpleStride Pittsburgh is in 3 weeks on Saturday, April 27, at the North Shore Riverfront Park. Please consider joining our team and/or making a donation. Dennis and I are always thrilled to spend time with each of you and are proud to have such a large team showing their support.

This year, we would like to raise at least $42,000 so Dennis and I will be matching all donations going forward to the Faith Heals team, up to $10,000 total. Please help us to reach our goal.

Thank you for standing with us and for your support, love, and generosity!!

Sending many hugs and much love,

Kathy and Dennis