My dear beautiful sister, Vicki, was diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer in April 2016. The diagnosis was such a devastating blow since the survival rate for pancreatic cancer at that time was only 8%.  

Vicki participated in a promising clinical trial at IU Simon Cancer Center. She endured 41 chemotherapy infusions over two years with grace and grit. In May 2018 she had very extensive surgery and all surgical margins looked clear. Five months later she received the dreaded news that the cancer was back so she had to resume chemotherapy. She endured 15 more rounds of chemo until it was apparent that her cancer was no longer responding to treatment. She was then referred to Sarah Cannon Cancer Center in Nashville, TN. She participated in two separate trials there.  After both were unsuccessful, she was placed on hospice care at home.  A month later on March 12, 2020, Vicki lost her battle to this deadly disease. 

Through the four years that Vicki battled pancreatic cancer, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) was a valuable source of information about treatment options, side effects, diet, etc.  During her difficult journey, Vicki kept her positive attitude, sense of humor, and relied on her strong faith.  She continues to be an inspiration to her family and friends who gather each year at PurpleStride to honor her and to raise funds so others with pancreatic cancer will have better outcomes.

PurpleStride is the walk to end pancreatic cancer. By making a donation to our team, you are supporting Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's efforts to improve the survival rate and find a cure for this awful disease.  The current survival rate is 11% so we still have a lot of work to do!  You can also join our team and participate in the 5K walk with us and help us fundraise.  The event is on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at White River State Park in Indianapolis.  PurpleStride is an opportunity to remember Vicki and others we have lost and to WAGE HOPE for the survivors. 

Peace and love, 

Jenny