Purple Light

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PCAN) kicked off Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month by having the third annual Purple Light ceremony! This event took place in not just Little Rock but also forty other locations across the USA. Survivors, current patients, family, and friends gathered at the Arkansas State Capitol for the event. Some of the goals of Purple Light are to honor those currently fighting the disease, inspire others to become involved in the mission of beating Pan Can, and remember those who have lost the battle to pancreatic cancer.

At the beginning of the ceremony everyone was given a purple glow stick. As the name of the person we were honoring, celebrating or remembering was called, we would light the glow stick and hold it in the air. It was really amazing looking around seeing everyone in their purple clothes holding their purple glow sticks while sitting on the steps of the purple Capitol! Purple is my favorite color, which made this event even better!

Pancreatic cancer is currently the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States, and affects on average 44,000 Americans each year. Of those diagnosed, more than 37,000 will pass away. Because of the small survival rate, there are not many survivors to spread awareness about this cancer. The PCAN is working to raise funds for more research to help increase the number of people that beat this disease.

The only two known causes of pancreatic cancer are smoking and diabetes. The best way to prevent diabetes is by leading a healthy lifestyle. Eating nutritious foods and exercising can prevent SO MUCH. It is so important that we, as a united society, choose to Be Proactive and Get Active!

November is the Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. My purple Miss Teen International sash will be worn this month to show my support of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and to help beat “pan can!” 

If you believe in something, believe in it all the way!

Blair Wortsmith
Miss Teen International 2014