In this episode, we talk with co-founder Mary Pettinaro and golf tournament chair Savannah Contestible.
Pancreatic Cancer Association of WNY (PCA)
The local organization was formed in 2009 to create awareness, raise funds for research, and advocate for those affected by pancreatic cancer.
An all-volunteer organization with members who have all been affected by the disease
Pancreatic Cancer – its symptoms and why it’s so hard to detect
Mimics other digestive disorders (abdominal or back pain, weight loss, jaundice, loss of appetite, nausea, changes in stools, diabetes can be a risk factor)
3rd leading cause of cancer deaths behind lung and colon. More people now die from Pancreatic Cancer than breast cancer.
It’s an aggressive cancer often found in the late stages because there are no early detection methods or routine screenings as in other major cancers.
An estimated 62,210 will be diagnosed this year, and more than 49,830 will die from it
Statistics have not changed much in the past 4-to 5 decades: the five-year survival rate just in the past few years reached double digits at 11% whereas most major cancers have been double digits for years and have much higher survival rates.
What programs does the agency provide?
Fund local research through two signature events and several pop-up monthly events:
- Signature fundraiser – Step It Up! Cure Pancreatic Cancer Walk
- Michael F Contestabile Golf Tournament
Provide educational programs at various community outreach events/virtual webinars
Developing direct patient support programs
Offer a Scholarship Fund to help families affected by pancreatic cancer.
PCAWNY GOLF TOURNAMENT
- Monday, July 11 at Eagle Vale
- 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Includes golf, lunch, and dinner with an awards program
- Online auction open to anyone whether attending golf or not
- Onsite raffles for participants
- Register at www.pcawny.org and click on golf tournament
- Teams and sponsorships are still available
Proceeds benefit:
Local pancreatic cancer research at Wilmot Cancer Center
Michael F. Contestabile Memorial Scholarship Fund to help families affected by pancreatic cancer be able to fund their children’s education.
Michael passed away at age 46 and left behind 3 young children – Savannah is one of them.
A scholarship is $1,000 awarded annually to high school or college students directly affected by pancreatic cancer. Applications are on our website – www.pcawny.org
Applications are being taken now – the deadline for submission is June 30.
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