Editor’s Note: Thousands of people came together at PanCAN PurpleStride 2026 to change the story of pancreatic cancer. VAC Member and survivor Eric Borden shares his reflections from the day. 

In addition to my advocacy and ongoing relationships, my involvement with PanCAN has become one of the most meaningful parts of my journey as a survivor. Being at PanCAN PurpleStride each year reminds me that I’m not alone as it deepens my connection to a shared purpose and strengthens my desire to make an impact. Standing among others who understand the weight of this disease, I feel both grounded and energized to keep pushing forward. 

What makes it even more powerful is knowing that, on the very same day, over 50 communities across the country are gathering for the same reason. There’s something incredibly moving about imagining thousands of people walking, remembering, hoping and fighting together. It turns an individual experience into a collective force for change. 

As a survivor, PurpleStride represents resilience, gratitude and responsibility. It’s a celebration of how far I’ve come, but also a reminder of those who are still in the fight and those we’ve lost. It gives my survival a deeper meaning, which is an opportunity to advocate, support and bring hope to those patients and their families who are going through the battle currently.  

Through PanCAN, that impact becomes tangible by funding new treatments and clinical trials, providing critical services for patients and advocating for increased government funding that can change the trajectory of this disease and drive the survival percentage way, way upward. With two new potential breakthroughs that have recently emerged, the future for survivors has never looked more hopeful. That to me is the essence of PurpleStride, which is turning hope into action and progress. 

I often think back to my first PurpleStride and how it blew my mind! I come to stride for hope, but I also come with strength, purpose and a sense of belonging. What hasn’t changed is the emotional impact. It’s just grown stronger and more resilient over time. Each year, PurpleStride continues to become more about community, action and unwavering determination. 

PurpleStride 2026 was no exception. The sense of community was rampant throughout the day which validated why I stride, why we volunteer, why we’re passionate and why we work toward making pancreatic cancer a disease of the past.