As many of you know, in October 2021, my husband Sid was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. To say he was incredibly lucky is understatement. The tumor was detected very early and was successfully removed before it spread. Sid’s cancer was found so early because he was fortunate to have a doctor who recommended that he get screened for pancreatic cancer based on his family history and his genetics -- specifically the BRCA2 gene mutation. 

For the third year in a row, our family is walking in PanCAN's PurpleStride on April 27 to raise money and awareness to detect and defeat the world's deadliest major cancer.  For our family, participating in PurpleStride provides us with the chance to pay forward the lifesaving work carried out by PanCAN every day, so that others can get the early screening they need. Last year we raised over $90,000.  This year our goal is to raise more than $100,000.  It's an ambitious goal, but as Sid’s story clearly shows, making sure that everyone has both the information and access to early screening will save lives.  During the time that we have participated in PurpleStride, the five-year pancreatic survival rate has increased from 10% to 13%, which sounds modest but in fact means hundreds of lives saved.

Access to early screening is so important to us that Sid and I will match the first $25,000 we raise.  We would greatly appreciate any size donation you could make to help us reach our goal. Or you can join our team and walk with us on April 27 at what is truly an inspiring event. You can donate or join us by clicking the appropriate button above. And, as importantly, if you have a family history or pancreatic cancer or the BRCA2 gene mutation, please get screened.

Thank you for supporting PanCAN and us.

With gratitude, Amy 

Should you wish to make a donation to support our team through a foundation or donor advised fund, please forward the donation to:  PanCAN, Attn: Rick Leonard, 1500 Rosecrans Avenue, Suite 200, Manhattan Beach, CA. 90266.  Please include a note or a memo on the check indicating "PurpleStride NYC/Team Screen."