Hello!

Thank you for supporting my PanCAN PurpleStride fundraiser. I want to make the biggest impact on the lives of pancreatic cancer patients – and I need your help 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. 

In November of 2019, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I had been having a crazy rash on my arms - which was weird but did not seem worrisome. I just kept popping Benadryl and putting cream on my arms. My wondrous sister Bobbie made me go to the doctor and after blood work and scans and good medical curiosity, they discovered a mass on my pancreas. The tumor was pushing on my gallbladder, causing my Bilirubin to back up, causing the rash.... I am grateful to my Bilirubin and to Bobbie - I know they saved my life.

I didn't know enough to be scared, just numb. I went home to Buffalo and to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and entered this world with a new vocabulary and an upside-down normal. The day I was released from the hospital following my Whipple surgery, the pandemic officially began and you all joined me in this upside-down, frightening new world. 

5 years later, I have had a few bumps and minor recurrences along the way, but I am happy and getting healthier every day.  I am so deeply grateful for the many heroes in my life including: Dr Iyer, Dr. Hochwald, Tracy, Marcos, Yolie, Sergio, Bobbie, Rob, Ryan, Heather, Matt, Kenny, Danielle, Asa, Selah, Jeffrey, Harriet, Chris, Bill, Xava, Liam, Paula, Alice and my beautiful parents - Subie and Stevie. Of course, all the doggies. And on and on and on.... 

If you are in Los Angeles and want to walk with me on April 26th that would be amazing! 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. As one of the people impacted, I am so grateful for your support!

With love and gratitude,

Deb