Memphis, Tenn., November 18, 2021 – Five Mid-South mayors have joined the fight against pancreatic cancer by proclaiming November 18, Kosten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day. In honor of November’s Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris, Germantown Mayor Mike Palozzolo, Olive Branch Mayor Ken Adams, and Southaven Mayor Darren Musselwhite are helping raise awareness for the cause and recognizing the Kosten Foundation’s efforts. Anyone interested in learning more about pancreatic cancer, or donating to research efforts, can go to the Kosten Foundation’s website at www.kostenfoundation.com.

“We are extremely grateful to all the mayors for their help in raising awareness for the fight against pancreatic cancer,” said Alan Kosten, Chairman of the Kosten Foundation, “Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of the disease and we are committed to funding cutting edge research for early detection, effective treatment, and, one day, a cure.”

The Kosten Foundation is the Mid-South’s leading pancreatic cancer research and support nonprofit. Their fundraising efforts have generated $2.4 million for pancreatic cancer research funding. Last year, the Foundation awarded grants to pancreatic cancer research teams in Memphis, New York City, Dallas, and McAllen, Texas.

This year, to memorialize Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day, the Kosten Foundation is hosting its annual Tribute at Twilight event. Survivors, family members, and those impacted by the disease will come together to honor those lost to pancreatic cancer by sharing stories and lighting candles in a memorial ceremony. Tribute at Twilight will be held Nov. 18 in Cancer Survivors Park (701 Perkins Exd.) at 4:30 p.m. and is open to anyone who would like to attend.

Local businesses and state landmarks are also recognizing Kosten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day by turning purple in support of the cause. The state capitol, Orpheum theater, and more will be shining purple in support of pancreatic cancer awareness.

To support its research efforts, the Kosten Foundation holds an annual Kick It 5K that has grown to include more than 1,500 participants and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Kosten Foundation also hosts the Mid-South’s only pancreatic cancer support group. The free, virtual meetings are scheduled for the second Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. Anyone who would like to attend is welcome and you can find more information on the Kosten Foundation’s website at https://www.kostenfoundation.com/support-group/.