My Dad has always been my hero. In 2018 my Dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. This is the deadliest major cancer a person can be diagnosed with. The statitstics are grim. It's impossible to put into words the emotional spiral that I spent the last year going through.
As my Dad underwent chemo treatements, radiation, and finally surgery- I watched and I prayed. Often, I was on the sidelines because I have three children who needed me to care for them. But I prayed each and every day and without ceasing for my Dad.
Today, my Dad is a pancreatic cancer survivor.
Running became my way of coping with the emotions. This year I am running the FULL Marathon in honor of my Dad. He never quit fighting and I will fight each of the 26.2 miles with the same grit and determination that I saw in my Dad during the grueling months of treatment.
Pancreatic Cancer does not have to be so deadly. Pancreatic cancer has a cure- it just isn't known yet.
The three photos I posted are my Dad with his three grandchildren. Grandchildren that at age 6, 4, and 1 deserve to know their amazing Grampy Joe for decades to come.
I'm raising money for Project Purple because I know what it's like to live in a world where a loved one is fighting for their life. And I know what it's like to feel hopeless and afraid every moment of the day- and no one should have to live like that.
Please join me in not only raising funds for research to cure this deadly disease, but also in spreading awareness and hope for those who are facing this diagnosis.
With gratitude,
Olivia