Thank you for supporting me in my NINTH year as the chair of PurpleStride Chicago (I can't believe it!!), both by joining and by fundraising, as I continue to work to help families struggling through pancreatic cancer. 

My dad, Roger Kingsland aka "Oh Great One" aka "OGO" (his self-styled nickname), was diagnosed and passed away within two months in 2011. At the time, a kind neighbor told me it never gets easier, but it gets better. It's true - it isn't easier, but I feel more and more empowered and in awe of the people who volunteer for this cause every day. It gets better because of them.

I volunteer for my dad. I volunteer for my Uncle Peter, who fought and lost to pancreatic cancer in 2001. I also volunteer in honor of all of the people who support patients as family members, caretakers, and friends. Dealing with pancreatic cancer is a difficult and emotional journey for all those involved. I volunteer in hopes that someday it will be just a little bit easier.

Morgan