Laurie Kaplan

Laurie Kaplan

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Raised: $3,726

Goal: $2,500

Welcome to the PanCan fundraising page for team POWER of POSITIVITY.

My journey with Pancreatic cancer started 35 years ago when my dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic cancer and given 4-6 months to live. He handled his diagnosis with grace, positivity and tremendous courage. The only time I remember him being upset was when he found out he was ineligible to participate in a clinical trial because his cancer was too advanced. Options were very limited then.


In January 2024 I was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. I immediately faced my mortality assuming my journey would be the same as my dad’s. I feared that I would not be there for my daughter’s wedding in August. Fortunately, I was one of the lucky ones whose tumor was found on the early side. My tumor was wrapped around a vein, but due to a very gifted surgeon and the Nano Knife procedure, I had a successful surgery in July. 35 years ago my tumor would have been considered inoperable. Instead I was able to dance at my daughter’s wedding!

To my family, friends and co-workers, I cannot express how much your love and support has meant to me and helped me on my journey. It has been a tough year of constant treatment. You picked me up when I was having a tough day, made me laugh, told me how great I looked (whether true or not ), reminded me of how strong I am, and helped me in countless other ways to stay positive and strong! I am truly blessed!

Pancreatic cancer is a very tough disease to detect and to treat. The only way to combat this is through research. I started by giving blood to participate in a research trial before I began my chemo. I am currently raising money for research by taking steps at the ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer, PanCAN PurpleStride, on Saturday, April 26, 2025. I would love for you to join me and my family on the walk. Will and Kara are moving back to Illinois in time for the walk and Melissa (and hopefully Matt) is even flying in from England to participate.

If you can’t join us, please consider supporting us with a donation. The money raised will fund vital research that can bring new treatment options to patients.
 
You are not just helping me, but others I care about who are currently battling this disease. Thank you for your participation!

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Laurie's Achievements

  • Connected
    to Facebook to
    Fundraise

  • Made a
    Personal
    Donation

  • Updated
    My Fundraising
    Page

  • Reached
    Fundraising
    Goal

  • I'm a
    PurpleStride
    Alum

  • Download & Open the PanCAN PurpleStride App

  • I've Received
    5+ Donations
    Toward my Goal

  • $50

    Raise $50 and Earn a T‑shirt

  • $100

    Raise $100

  • Raise $250

  • Raise $500

  • Raise $750

  • $1,000GRANDCLUB

    Raise $1,000 and Join the PanCAN PurpleStride Grand Club

About PanCAN PurpleStride

Local action. Nationwide impact. This is PanCAN PurpleStride, the ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer.

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, at nearly 60 events across the country, pancreatic cancer survivors, families, caregivers, researchers and supporters will join together and walk to honor everyone affected by the disease.

PurpleStride is PanCAN's signature community celebration, raising money to fight pancreatic cancer on all fronts — through research, clinical initiatives, patient services, advocacy and nationwide volunteer support. Learn more.

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