CELEBRITIES BATTLE PANCREATIC CANCER, TOO.

Messages of HopE

“When Magic Johnson received his HIV diagnosis in 1991, there was widespread fear that we would soon lose him. However, thanks to significant treatment breakthroughs, he continues to be with us today. Artificial Intelligence is currently advancing research in pancreatic cancer at an unprecedented rate, offering promising prospects for improved outcomes. Moreover, scientific advancements in various areas, including vaccine development, instill hope for all those facing the challenges of this disease.”

Earl J. Campazzi, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A., author of the 2024 book Living with Pancreatic Cancer: A Patient and Family Guide

While Princess Kate Middleton has chosen not to disclose the type of cancer she is battling, on March 22, 2024, she shared a heartfelt message of encouragement to all individuals grappling with cancer:

“…For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”

From the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network story about “Heat Squad” Host and pancreatic cancer survivor Maria Menounos:

Maria credits her early diagnosis – at stage II – and good prognosis to being in tune with her body and to her unwavering commitment to find answers. She urges everyone to know symptoms and warning signs, ask questions and seek out resources.

Recent Press and Media

Patrick Swayze Documentary

The documentary, “I Am Patrick Swayze,” debuted on the Paramount Network on the 10 anniversary of his passing, August 18, 2019. The documentary is also available through Amazon.

Kelly Lynch, Actress, tweeted about The Patrick Swayze Documentary

Jamie Dornan, Actor

Watch Jamie open up on devastating impact Pancreatic Cancer has had on him | BelfastLive | July 28, 2019

Tom Brady, Professional Athlete

Read | Patriots’ Tom Brady Supports High School Football Coach | Pancreatic Cancer Network | December 5, 2017

Laryssa Bonacquisti, Miss Louisiana 2017

Read | Miss Louisiana a humorous ventriloquist, but her platform is dead serious | The Advocate | July 25, 2017

Lost

Richard RounDtree

The beloved American actor was best known for playing the lead character in the Shaft film series. He was lost to pancreatic cancer on October 24, 2023.

Harry Reid

The former Senate Majority Leader lost his four-year battle with pancreatic cancer on December 28, 2021.

He was diagnosed in May of 2018. “His doctors caught the problem early during a routine screening,” and he had surgery at the time. Reference: Politico article linked below.

Willie Garson

The actor best known for his role as Carrie Bradshaw’s best male friend on the hit HBO series “Sex and the City,” has died from pancreatic cancer at the age of 57. Lost September 21, 2021.

Siegfried Fischbacher

Illusionist Siegfried Fischbacher of 'Siegfried & Roy' has died of pancreatic cancer at 81. Lost January 13, 2021.

Alex Trebek

The beloved host of gameshow “Jeopardy!” for 36 years died of pancreatic cancer at age 80. Lost November 08, 2020.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

This U.S. Supreme Court Justice and womens’ rights champion has died at the age of 87. She bravely fought pancreatic cancer since 2009. Lost September 18, 2020.

John Lewis

A congressman and civil rights icon who marched and spoke alongside Martin Luther during the 1960s civil rights movement. Lost July 17, 2020

Bushwick Bill

The Jamaica-born Geto Boys rapper previously survived a near-death experience from a gunshot wound. But pancreatic cancer took him on June 9, 2019.

Aretha Franklin

“The Queen of Soul,” was the first woman admitted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the singer of “Respect.” Lost August 16, 2018.

In August 2019, Franklin’s Estate announced funding of research for neuroendocrine tumor, the rare form of pancreatic cancer from which she died.

suzanne wright

Co-Founder of Autism Speaks. The White House and other buildings around the world light up blue annually every April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day, because of Suzanne’s efforts. Lost July 29, 2016.

Alan Rickman

Acclaimed actor and director best known for Love Actually, Die Hard, and the Harry Potter series. Lost January 14, 2016

Steve Jobs

Apple CEO and co-founder, and pioneer of the microcomputer revolution. Lost Oct. 5, 2011

Patrick Swayze

American Actor best known for Ghost and Dirty Dancing. Lost Sept. 14, 2009.

Luciano Pavarotti

Famed opera singer. Lost September 6, 2007

Michael Landon

Actor, writer, producer, and director best known for Little House on the Prairie and Bonanza. Lost July 1, 1991.