Wallingford Resident to Honor Grandfather at PurpleStride

More than 750 people will join the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network for a 5K walk and run to raise funds and awareness about pancreatic cancer, the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States, at PurpleStride Connecticut 2013 on Saturday, June 22.

“My family is deeply committed to supporting the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in providing real hope to those who have been touched by this insidious disease,” said Le Ann Arsenault of Wallingford. “My grandfather, Chris Roberts was diagnosed in January 2013 and after attempting surgery, is in declining health.”  

Arsenault will be joined by family, friends and loved ones who formed Team Grandpa. Remembering how frightening and frustrating it was for the family to be faced with the diagnosis.

“I am so proud of my family for remaining so strong and staying by his side through all of this and I know we need to stay strong and keep fighting for this cause.

“Seeing my close friends and family members and meeting new friends and others who have had to be in this unfortunate situation of having a family member or loved one suffer through this terrible cancer. My hope is that families, patients, caregivers and survivors will find strength and support in each other.” 

All those who would like to join the fight against pancreatic cancer are invited to attend the event which will take place in Hubbard Park in Meriden. Participants have their choice of walking, running or running a timed race on a course through the park.  The event will include music, and other family-friendly festivities.  Registration begins at 8:00am, Opening Ceremonies at 9:40am and the run/walk at 10:00am. To register, visit: www.purplestride.org/Connecticut.  

PurpleStride Connecticut will benefit the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, the national organization creating hope in a comprehensive way through research, patient support, community outreach and advocacy for a cure. 

“It is a day of hope and inspiration for people who have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer as well as a tribute to people who have passed away from this terrible disease,” said Gail Williams, Event Chair for the Connecticut Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

“We are proud to join tens of thousands of people across the country who are taking part in PurpleStride events this year.  We all share one common goal – to end pancreatic cancer. Money raised helps fund personalized support for patients, their families and caregivers, as well as supporting research that will hopefully lead to better treatment options to increase survival for pancreatic cancer patients.”  

Pancreatic cancer has one of the lowest survival rates of all major cancers - 74 percent die within one year of diagnosis and the five-year survival rate is only six percent. A recent report indicates that pancreatic cancer is anticipated to move from the fourth to the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States by 2020, and possibly as early as 2015.  

In 2013, more than 45,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and nearly 38,500 will die from the disease.     

Press release