The 14th Annual Lustgarten Foundation Naperville Walk for Pancreatic Cancer Research is set for Sun., July 16, 2023, stepping off from the Riverwalk Grand Pavilion.
Again, Lustgarten Foundation’s Naperville Walk provides survivors, patients, friends and families a day of hope, remembrance and action.
In 2010, Jennifer Tedrow’s father, Mark, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer when he was just 66 years old. Mark passed away in 2016, leaving his family devastated and in need of a way to make a difference.
“I was compelled to do something to fight back against this terrible disease,” said Tedrow.
After searching for an outlet for her grief, she found an announcement for her local Lustgarten Foundation Walk for Pancreatic Cancer Research in Naperville. She joined the initiative and her role has grown over the years. Again this year, she is the Naperville Walk Co-leader.
To date, the Naperville Walk has raised more than $1 million in support of the Lustgarten Foundation.
Simply Put…
WHAT: Lustgarten Foundation Naperville Walk for Pancreatic Cancer Research features 1.5 and 2.5 mile routes.
WHEN: Check-in begins at 8:30AM Sun., July 16, 2023 / Opening Ceremony at 9AM / Walk Kick-off at 9:30AM.
WHERE: Riverwalk Grand Pavilion, 912 Honorary Sindt Memorial Court
WHY: Pancreatic cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. with an overall survival rate of just 12%. This year, an estimated 64,050 Americans will receive this devastating diagnosis and approximately 2,080 Illinois residents will die from pancreatic cancer. 100% of donations fund pancreatic cancer research.
Tedrow added that several new features will complement the 2023 walk.
“Updated messaging and backdrops with a focus on hope will refresh the look,” she said.
“’Empowering Research. Inspiring Hope.’ Lustgarten offers hope to all individuals affected by pancreatic cancer. Together we will reflect, remember, celebrate progress, and fund the next groundbreaking discoveries toward a cure.”
While the Lustgarten Foundation is celebrating its 25th Anniversary… 25 years of pancreatic cancer research, Tedrow explained, “…Locally we’re celebrating reaching $1 million raised since the inception of local efforts 13 years ago by Ann Zediker and her family.”
And there’s more that represent 13 years of walking and raising awareness in Naperville.
“I’m reminded we also have done many community efforts like Carillon concerts, Superbowl squares, No Shave November with local PD’s, etc.,” Tedrow added.
Spending time with Tedrow and her family, it becomes clear that finding a cure is their passion.
“We’re working to help us transform pancreatic cancer into a curable disease,” she said.
For more information or to volunteer, visit www.Lustgarten.org/Naperville.
RELATED PN POSTS THAT HELP TELL THE STORY OF THE GROWTH OF THIS EVENT / www.positivelynaperville.com/?s=lustgarten.
