Rallying together to support pancreatic cancer research

More than two decades ago, a chance encounter during a walk down Gadsden Street sparked a lifelong friendship for Sarah “Chris” Christopher, one of our resilient pancreatic cancer survivors. Chris had invited Amy, a gardening neighbor, to an event, who then extended the invitation to her neighbor Valerie. Years of love followed.

“The love of those two women has been life-changing,” said Valerie, “We have supported each other through two cancer diagnoses – thyroid cancer (Amy) and pancreatic cancer (Chris). Chris’ husband and our dear friend Remley – after whom my daughter is named – passed away after a cancer diagnosis as well. Through it all, our support of each other has stayed strong. Being able to show that support and love during the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s annual PurpleStride walk means so much to our family.”

 

Chris’ story is a testament to the power of resilience and support.  I first met her two years ago when Valerie learned that I was researching how different mutations in pancreatic cancer could be used to develop more effective chemotherapies. In true Charleston style, she arranged a happy hour for the three of us to discuss Chris’ experiences. Bubbly and full of life, Chris showed no sign that she had recently battled cancer. Having received a life-altering diagnosis four years prior, she confronted the challenge with resilience. She sought treatment at the Hollings Cancer Center and never let her cancer define her.

Today, she stands tall, back on the tennis court and at the gym with a renewed sense of purpose. She wants others to know just how important it was to have a supportive health care team on her journey to recovery.

“I am thankful every day for the outstanding medical and surgical care I received at Hollings Cancer Center and an amazing group of friends," said Christopher. "It is so important to have someone in health care who listens to you.”

Her story began with a stomachache on a Sunday evening. It continued all day Monday.  By Tuesday morning, she decided to call her primary care doctor, who urged her to come in immediately. She's grateful she trusted her instincts. Her advice, especially for other women, is trust yourself.

“We have good instincts. If something feels wrong, check it out. What started as a tender, slightly distended abdomen ultimately led to a life-changing diagnosis,” said Christopher, who feels like she’s one of the lucky ones. “Fortunately for me, my primary care doctor said, ‘Get over here!’  And away we went!”

“I am thankful every day for the outstanding medical and surgical care I received at Hollings Cancer Center and an amazing group of friends. It is so important to have someone in health care who listens to you.”

-- Sarah "Chris" Christopher

I am so grateful to have met people like Chris through my role in PanCAN because it gives even more meaning to my lab work. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is 13%, and I believe research is the only way that we will develop more targeted therapies for patients.

PanCAN’s Research Grants Program has provided funds for research across the nation, including the Hobbs Lab at MUSC, where I am currently getting my Ph.D. This has given me the opportunity to contribute to fighting this disease inside AND outside the lab, and participating in PanCAN PurpleStride last year was life-changing – because this event has the power to change lives. It was a special day when we could all come together to honor people like Chris and support other pancreatic cancer patients who were not as lucky or are still fighting.

The mission of fighting this dreaded disease hits close to home because I lost my Dad to cancer. I personally know the pain and heartbreak of losing someone too soon. Sadly, 900 South Carolinians will die in 2024 from pancreatic cancer. The good news is that we can make a huge difference by raising awareness and vital funds for pancreatic cancer research at Hollings Cancer Center.

My friends and I will join communities across South Carolina on Saturday, April 27, for PanCAN PurpleStride. At this ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer, we gather to celebrate Chris's triumph over adversity, raise awareness for pancreatic cancer research and support patients battling the disease. We hope to see you there!