I lost my father and best buddy, Joe Drolett on June 2, 2019 to pancreatic cancer.  I can't believe he's been gone that long - he lives in my heart and visits me in my dreams so often. 

Dad was a great dad. My biggest supporter. And Dad just loved people. He loved serving his community.  Dad was the President of his High School class, he was a Marine, he was the Supervisor of Delta Township - best of all, he was just a truly nice guy. A smile, a handshake or hug were always at the ready. 

Dad lived a great life. My parents were married 55 years - best friends. He had 4 children, 5 adoring grandchildren, 2 brothers, a great big extended family, and more friends than could ever be counted. Truly - we couldn't walk into a building without Dad knowing someone. 

We are all so grateful for the time we had but, of course, we all wanted more time.  Dad fought hard for over 2 years to battle this disease, but the cancer was relentless. Dad fought his battle with such grace and optimism - like he did everything in his life. He smiled and encouraged US the whole time. He was and is my hero.    

When Dad was first diagnosed, we did not know what to do or where to turn. My sister discovered PanCan and quickly learned of all of their amazing resources. Their team helped answer questions about trials available, they paired Dad with a survivor so he had someone to talk to, and PanCan helped answer all kinds of questions like "how do we help Dad get his appetite back" or tricks to gaining weight.  Later, I learned more of the great work they are doing raising awareness and funding to battle this disease. 

This is my seventh year participating in Purple Stride. Since Dad's diagnosis, I've become acutely aware of how prevalent this cancer is, how it impacts the young and old, and how it does not discriminate.

If you think you don't know anyone impacted, trust me, you do.  I'm stunned by the number of folks that say "my Dad/Mom/Uncle/Brother/etc had/has that too." Or take a look at your iPhone (Steve Jobs), turn on your favorite game show (Alex Trebek), favorite Tenor (Luciano Pavarotti), maybe you want some RESPECT (Aretha Franklin), or perhaps someone who you voted for in the past (Representative John Lewis).  Of course I could (very unfortunately) go on and on. 

I know, with all that's going on in the world, there are so many causes and folks in need.   

But, as you know,  cancer just does not stop. I ask you to please do what you can, and help us put an end to this disease by making a donation, of any size. Or join the team! Let's spread the word, because of all of the ordinary extraordinary folks we know who face(d) this horrible disease, and to work hard to ensure it does not take more.   

Currently, pancreatic cancer is the world's toughest cancer with a five year survival rate of just over 10%, and the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. This deadly disease has stolen our best and our brightest, but it can’t take away our determination.  

I invite you to please donate and/or walk with me this year!! Joining my team cost nothing.  Please help simply spread the word. 

Every dollar that you give ensures that the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network can continue working to improve outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients.

Purple ribbons aren’t enough. Please join me in the fight today.