Pancreatic Cancer: Purple Stride 5K Run/Walk

We’re used to hearing about the dangers connected to breast or colon cancer, but did you know pancreatic cancer is actually the 4th leading cause of cancer death in the United States?

Some folks headed to Tybee Island this morning because they want to help stop the spread of the disease one step at a time.

Melissa Runyon, gets ready to run for her grandfather, a man she loved and adored.

“About September of last year he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and after a very long and strong fight with it, pancreatic cancer, he passed away this past march, so I am running in honor of him,” explains Melissa Runyon who came all the way from Warner Robins.

Melissa says as a granddaughter who loves her grandfather and an oncology nurse, she’s passionate about being involved in raising money and awareness.

Everyone running in Saturday’s 5K Purple Stride is just like Melissa, they too have been touched by pancreatic cancer.

“It’s a very, very serious medical problem.  There are people, many more people who are diagnosed with breast cancer, but about an equal number of people pass away of breast cancer,“ says Jane Miller, coordinator for the Savannah affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Jane Miller, Savannah affiliate coordinator for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network says pancreatic cancer kills 40,000people in the United States each year.  The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network does more than just raise money for research.  They also support the patients and provides hope for families.

“It’s an outstanding cause and I’m so thankful to see so many people out here,” adds Melissa.

About 40 people participated in Saturday’s 5k run/walk.  Afterwards, they enjoyed a pot luck lunch at Jaycee Park.

All of the money raised today will go to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, a group that supports families dealing with pancreatic cancer.

For more information on the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, click here.