On January 15th, 2024, Phil was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer.  On January 4th, 2025, he was gone.  There was barely time to process the diagnosis.  This disease can move swiftly, and the survival rate is low.  Very, very low.  The signs and symptoms are so quiet that it's often far too late by the time of diagnosis. 

My husband was 53 years old. Full of life, healthy and one of the best humans you could ever hope to know.  He was the best dad,  amazing brother and my best friend.  If you were lucky enough to call him a friend, you were truly blessed. 

I have decided that I can either continue to sit here and be sad and devastated, OR I can be sad and devastated AND DO SOMETHING.  The latter seems a better choice.  If my efforts can help one other person not suffer, then I feel like that's what I need to do.  It's time to turn my pain into purpose.

When we participated in the Purple Stride in 2024, we raised over 12,000 dollars.  I'd like to beat that number.  I encourage you to join my team, make a donation and spread the word.  I also strongly suggest to know the signs of this deadly disease, and listen to your body.

PurpleStride is an inspiring event for anyone who has been affected by pancreatic cancer and wants to ensure vital research continues and free resources are made available to all who need them.

To make the biggest difference, I’ve set an ambitious fundraising goal and I need your help - will you donate to my PurpleStride fundraiser?

A gift of any size will provide much-needed hope for a brighter future for the entire pancreatic cancer community.

Want to join me at PurpleStride? Now’s the time! Register for free and take steps with me – everyone who registers and raises or self-donates $100 or more will earn the official PanCAN PurpleStride T-shirt!

Again, thank you for supporting me and everyone affected by pancreatic cancer. I’m grateful for you and your support!

21Strong Forever

Jen