In Play Magazine
ALLEN PARK, MI – The Detroit Lions again are teaming up with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network to help increase awareness of pancreatic cancer at the Lions-New York Jets’ game on Sunday (Nov. 7) at Ford Field. Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. and this year more than 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with the cancer. The mortality rate from this devastating disease has remained at 94% for many years.
The Lions have been touched by pancreatic cancer during Director of Security Ricky Sandoval’s fight against the disease. Ricky lost his courageous three-year battle with pancreatic cancer in July of 2009. His wife, Gael, continues Ricky’s battle by bringing awareness to pancreatic cancer.
A special check presentation during pre-game ceremonies will involve Gael, who founded the Detroit affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in 2007. Lions’ President Tom Lewand will represent the Lions who helped sponsor the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s “Links for the Cure” golf and PurpleStride fundraisers this summer that combined to raise $275,000 to support the mission of the organization.
Also, volunteers from the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network will hand out purple wristbands while supplies last as fans depart Gate A at Ford Field after the game. Wearing the wristbands allows fans to show their support in Ricky’s memory and for the thousands of Americans who are currently battling pancreatic cancer and/or who have lost loved ones to the disease.
Earlier this year, the Detroit Lions were recognized as the National Sponsor of the Year by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network during its national meetings in Dallas, Texas.
Together, the Detroit Lions and the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network plan to tackle pancreatic cancer head-on by involving NFL fans in the continued effort to advance research, support patients and create hope.
To learn more about pancreatic cancer or how you can help fight this devastating disease visit http://www.pancan.org/ or call 1-877-272-6226.
