When Jim died thirteen years ago, I made it my mission to make sure that Kelly would not have to face the same fate.  This is more important than ever, since now we have Dylan, who never got to know his grandpa. 

I have learned a lot since getting involved with PanCAN.  For instance, there is a relationship between breast cancer (Jim's mom was a 35 year survivor) and pancreatic cancer (from which few survive that long).  But it DOES happen, and we want to see that survival rate improve like it has for breast cancer.  Better yet, we want to discover its causes, so we know how to prevent it.  I am convinced we can do it if our will is strong, and if enough of us support this cause.  When Jim was diagnosed, the (5 year) survival rate was 5%.  When he died, it was 6%.  Now it is 15%.  That is still pathetic, but a few more wives still have their husbands, a few more children still have their parents, and a few more children get to know their grandparents.

I appreciate anything you can do to help our cause, to keep Jim's memory alive, and to keep Captain Kirk's Crew in the top ten fundraising teams for Phoenix PurpleStride!  Thanks!  Gayle