Why did you want to volunteer with PanCAN?  
My dad was the best dad. I mean the best!  When my dad passed away from pancreatic cancer after only 7 months of treatments I was angry.  Not enough people knew the early signs and symptoms, there were not enough treatment options, and there was not enough hope.  I knew I needed to take the emotions I was having and turn them in to something more positive and after my cousin did a search on Google looking for charities that our family could support, becoming a volunteer with PanCAN was the perfect fit.  PanCAN and I have the same mission to raise awareness, raise funds, and most importantly wage hope! 
 
What do you love about your role and/or your affiliate? 
I always say that my purple family is one that I wish I would have met under any different circumstance, but I can’t imagine my life without them now either.  In my role as Team & Individual Development Chair, I can honestly say the part I love the most is when I connect the dots between our awesome teams.  Seeing them reach out to each other for fundraising advice or simply giving a hug; watching our 130 teams become one strong unit is amazing because I know there is power in numbers and together we will make change happen.  It is truly an honor being able to support our Columbus teams in all that they do raising money for PurpleStride.  

You’ve been involved for a few years now. What continues to fuel your passion for volunteering?
This is an easy question to answer- Our babies!  All those cute little ones I see running around PurpleStride waving at Brutus (O-H!) in their oversized adorable t-shirts, my resolve is always stronger after watching them enjoy the day.  Over the years I have met so many families impacted by this disease where multiple generations have had to battle pancreatic cancer.   As a mother it is my job to worry about my kids, but more importantly to take action and to do all that I can, while I am here to keep them safe and help them live the longest and best lives possible.  I want to make sure that their generation is prepared; their generation has treatments and one day a cure!  
 
What is your best piece of advice for new volunteers in leadership roles?
The best advice that I can share is the same piece of advice that is shared with us during Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill…Share Your Story!  People might not know about pancreatic cancer, but people do understand family, love, heartache, hope, and support.  If we want to make real change, we need everyone to understand what we are up against.  Sharing your story with others can make such an impact.   Sharing your story can change someone’s life.  Don’t be afraid, share your story today and every day!