Guildhall turns purple in support of Pancreatic Cancer
One of Winchester's landmark buildings will be illuminated in purple on Thursday evening (19 November) to remember loved ones lost to pancreatic cancer; support those living with and beyond the disease as well as raising awareness of November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
This year Winchester City Council’s cabinet member, and Liberal Democrat, Cllr Lynda Murphy and Conservative MP Steve Brine are encouraging people to come together to support ‘Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer’ on Thursday 19 November to raise awareness for a cause close to both of their hearts.
Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on Boxing Day 2019, Lynda is fortunate to have undergone an operation earlier this year. However, 90 per cent of people with the disease are diagnosed too late to be eligible for surgery. Ahead of Purple Lights for Pancreatic Cancer on 19 November, Cllr Lynda Murphy said:
“The Covid-19 pandemic has led to many pancreatic cancer sufferers having their appointments postponed. That's why Pancreatic Cancer UK's 'No Time to Wait' campaign is so important. If I'd had to wait an extra month for my operation, I wouldn't be here now."
Steve Brine MP, former Cancer Minister, lost his father to the condition during last year’s General Election, said;
“We’ve come so far in improving cancer survival rates but the less survivable cancers remain a huge challenge and none more so than pancreatic. I know from recent painful experience how fast it can strike so hope we can continue to communicate the key signs of symptoms.”
The council is supporting ‘Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer’ on Thursday 19 November and the wider #InPurple campaign which runs throughout November, in support of Pancreatic Cancer UK, Pancreatic Cancer Action, Planets and Guts UK.
Diana Jupp, CEO of Pancreatic Cancer UK adds;
“Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease that touches thousands of lives across the UK. Every building, landmark and home lit purple during Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month helps raise much-needed awareness of the disease. It’s wonderful to see Steve and Lynda come together, as part of a global effort, to show their support for everyone living with the disease and remember those who have sadly passed away.”
Around 10,000 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the UK each year. Unlike for other cancers which have seen significant improvements, survival for pancreatic cancer has barely changed in 40 years.