Thank you for supporting my PanCAN PurpleStride fundraiser!

This year marks a significant milestone for my family and me as we continue our journey of fundraising for pancreatic cancer. It has been 13 years since my dad, Austin L. Roberts III, passed away, and the ache of his absence is felt every single day. Sharing his story is a way to keep his memory alive, and I want to take a moment to reflect on the love we shared.

It was a Friday, August 19, 2011, and after finishing work, I began my familiar drive back to my parents’ home, eager to spend time with my dad. Although his health had been declining over the months, our visits remained filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories.

That particular weekend was no exception. We enjoyed beautiful moments together, reminiscing about life and sharing our hopes and dreams. As Sunday, August 21, approached, I typically would have returned home, but after heartfelt conversations with my dad, I decided to stay the night and head straight to work from their house in the morning.

As I said goodnight, I kissed him and promised I would see him the following weekend. He smiled, hugged me tightly, and wished me goodnight. Little did I know that those would be my last moments with him. 

The next morning, at 5:45 am on August 22, I awoke to my mom’s screams, a sound filled with desperation and heartache. I rushed downstairs, not prepared for what awaited me. This was the day we had been bracing ourselves for over the last three years. When I reached the living room, I found my mom beside my dad, and as I held his hand, I felt him take his last breath. At that moment, I understood that this cruel disease had taken him from us.

Pancreatic cancer is devastating, with the lowest survival rate of all major cancers, at a mere 10%. This disease has claimed so many precious lives, but it cannot extinguish our hope and determination. I have chosen to stand up and Wage Hope at PurpleStride, a walk dedicated to ending pancreatic cancer. 

I urge you to take a stand with me in transforming the future of pancreatic cancer by making a donation today. Your generous support enables the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network to continue its vital mission of enhancing the lives of patients and their families. Every dollar you contribute today brings us closer to our ambitious goal of doubling pancreatic cancer survival rates by 2025.

Wearing purple ribbons is just the beginning; we must take tangible action. Join me in this crucial fight today. Your kindness can create lasting change. Thank you for your invaluable support.

I want to make the biggest impact on the lives of pancreatic cancer patients – and I need you to do it!

I’m taking steps at the ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer, PanCAN PurpleStride, on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

PurpleStride participants raise money to fund vital research that can bring new treatment options to patients; free, personalized, one-to-one support through PanCAN Patient Services; and more.

Here’s where you come in! I’ve set an ambitious fundraising goal and need your donations! A gift of any size will help patients and families facing a pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

Want to help in a bigger way? 

Join me by registering for PurpleStride! Register for free, raise $50 and you’ll receive an official PanCAN PurpleStride 2025 T-shirt!

Let’s show everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer that we’re fighting for them.

I’m grateful for your support!