The City of Atlanta’s skyline is set to illuminate in vibrant purple on Thursday, November 16, 2023, in observance of World Pancreatic Cancer Day and the outstanding efforts of the local non-profit organization, Purple Pansies. Several prominent buildings in the city, including King & Queen Buildings, Cumming Water Tower, Google Atlanta, JLL Tower, CBRE, Stream Realty Partners, Terminus 100, Terminus 200, NCR Building and Colony Square, will be bathed in purple light to honor the memory of those affected by pancreatic cancer and to raise awareness for this critical cause. 

Since its inception in 2009, Purple Pansies has stood as a beacon of hope and unwavering dedication in the battle against pancreatic cancer. Founded by Maria Fundora, whose determination was fueled by the tragic loss of her mother to pancreatic cancer a mere three months after diagnosis, Purple Pansies has remained steadfast in its commitment to channel 100% of all funds raised, minus expenses, towards combatting this devastating disease.

The lighting event, is aligned with Purple Pansies annual theme, "Illumination," a symbolic gesture acknowledging the need for light and hope amidst the darkness that pancreatic cancer often represents. The theme also pays homage to the roots of the local non-profit. The organization was founded in honor of Maria's mother, 'Iluminada,' whose name in Spanish means illuminated. Her mother's life exemplified the principles on which Purple Pansies was built – shining a light on those in need and sharing that light with others.

“As we light up Atlanta in purple on November 16^th, we stand united against pancreatic cancer, offering hope, support, and a beacon of light to all those affected by this devastating disease” said Maria Fundora, Founder of Purple Pansies.

Purple Pansies' mission is to offer immediate support to individuals and families impacted by pancreatic cancer, while also contributing to the funding of crucial research and clinical trials aimed at conquering this devastating disease. 

Pancreatic cancer presents a formidable challenge with alarming statistics:

• It has the lowest survival rate among all major cancers.
• It boasts the highest mortality rate among all major cancers.
• In 2023, the American Cancer Society's estimates for pancreatic cancer in the United States are stark:

• Approximately 64,050 people (33,130 men and 30,920 women) will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
• About 50,550 people (26,620 men and 23,930 women) will succumb to this relentless disease.

To date, Purple Pansies has raised over $5 million, which has been channeled towards providing emergency financial aid to patients and their families, granting scholarships to children from families impacted by pancreatic cancer, and supporting groundbreaking research and clinical trials. This entirely volunteer-run organization has played a pivotal role in the development of key regimens employed in the treatment of pancreatic cancer today.

For more information about Purple Pansies and their mission, please visithttps://purplepansies.org/