My mom, Jan, was diagnosed in July 2007 with a rare form of pancreatic cancer called "Neuroendocrine" or "Islet Cell". The good news is this type, unlike the majority of pancreatic cancers, generally progresses slowly. The bad news is that, like most, the cancer was found too late to cure and had already spread to her liver and lung, making it stage IV. It is incurable and only a special chemotherapy at this point can keep the symptoms under control. The other good news: Her current chemo does not cause debilitating side effects. Like all pancreatic cancer survivors, we hope for the miracle of a cure before it's too late.
The survival rate for pancreatic cancer has not changed in 25 years. You can help give my mom and all pancreatic cancer patients a fighting chance by sponsoring our walk, for which 100% of your donation will go towards research funding that will give her the fighting chance needed to remain 'survivors'. The Lustgarten Foundation is the nation’s largest private supporter of research for pancreatic cancer. Thanks to a commitment by Cablevision Systems Corporation to underwrite all of the Foundation’s administrative expenses, 100% of every dollar donated to the Foundation goes directly to critically needed pancreatic cancer research.
Please support me in the Walk, and help ensure that pancreatic cancer patients have a fighting chance. My family and I thank you for your support.