My name is Katie and on February 22nd, 2024, I lost my dad, Chris, to pancreatic cancer.

On January 3rd, 2024, my dad went to have a regular physical with lab work and the doctor found some of his levels were off. After this appointment, he was referred to a G.I. doctor who did an ultrasound. They found some masses on his liver and then sent him for an MRI, CT scan, PET scan, and liver biopsy. He was officially diagnosed on January 26th, 2024 with stage four pancreatic cancer and 54% liver failure. 

After his diagnosis, he chose to try and fight with chemo. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is usually found too late to fight it. The chemo was going to do one of two things: hit the cancer or hit his liver. It hit his liver. He wound up in the hospital with a 102-degree fever and a sepsis infection caused by the chemo. The cancer kept spreading.

He fought as hard as he could for about three weeks and we prayed and prayed for a miracle. 

Once he got home from the hospital, I did a little research and found out about PurpleStride.

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.

Here’s where you come in! I’ve set an ambitious fundraising goal and need your donations! My family and I ask that you consider donating in memory of my dad. A gift of any size will help patients and families facing a pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

Want to help in a bigger way? Join me by registering for PurpleStride! Register for free, raise $50 and you’ll receive an official PanCAN PurpleStride 2024 T-shirt!

Let’s show everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer that we’re fighting for them.

I’m grateful for your support!