Since 2016, Team Steely Dave has been raising money in support of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) by participating in PurpleStride San Diego. We are co-captained by Claire Caraska and Michelle Butler. Here's why we walk:

"I walk in honor and memory of my dad, David Caraska, who passed away from pancreatic cancer at age 62 on Feb. 7, 2015, just one year, eight months and seven days from his diagnosis. Our team name is in honor of my dad's love of the band Steely Dan and an homage to his fantasy football team name (Steely Dave). I miss him dearly, and I want to do all that I can to help support research efforts for early detection and treatment so that others do not have to suffer what he went through, and other families don't have to experience the devastating loss that my family and I have." — Claire

"I walk to honor my dad, David Butler, who is now a seven-year and counting survivor of pancreatic cancer. When he was first diagnosed, we reached out to our friend, Claire, who connected us to PanCAN and other resources. These resources ultimately guided our treatment team decision. Through the process of initial treatment and surgery, as well as treatments during two additional reoccurrences, PanCAN has been a vital resource. From webinars, information on clinical trials, and stories of hope, to their critical funding of advocacy and continued research for the treatment of this disease, PanCAN truly is a lifeline. Our family is incredibly grateful to team Steely Dave, PanCAN, and you, our friends and family, for your continued support, love, and advocacy at every step of the walk." — Michelle

Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., and the cancer with the lowest survival rate (five-year survival rate is 13%).

It is estimated that more than 66,000 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the U.S. in 2024, and 51,750 are predicted to die from the disease this year. You can help change these statistics.

By making a tax-deductible donation to our team, you are supporting scientific research, government advocacy, patient services and community awareness. 

Thank you so much for helping us to Wage Hope for the thousands of individuals affected by pancreatic cancer.