I’m running the 2020 London Marathon in memory of my stepdad, David Kannenstine, and my grandfather, Brian Barder, who both died of pancreatic cancer.

David, my mom’s partner, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in November 2008. He died less than 4 months later at the age of 47. Every day, we miss his chill vibes, his insanely good heart, his music, his knowledge, and his good advice. In September 2017, my granddad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer when doctors found a tumor during an unrelated investigation. Even after undergoing a major operation to remove part of his pancreas, he died less than a year later. I still can’t wrap my head around him being gone, but I’m so lucky to have grown up around his distinct kindness, his immense wit, his bold brilliance, and his warm demeanor.

The 5-year survival rate of pancreatic cancer is only 9%, partly because it’s symptomless until it reaches a terminal stage. So many people seem to have lost someone to pancreatic cancer, so all efforts towards a higher survival rate are crucial. I’m raising money for Pancreatic Cancer UK, a charity taking on the disease through support, funding, and campaigning. I’m hoping to raise as much money for Pancreatic Cancer UK as I can while I train for the London Marathon. It feels fitting to run through London, the city my granddad loved calling home, and where a lot of my family still is. Thanks so much for reading and please feel free to donate any amount or pass this along!