I lost my father to pancreatic cancer in 2016, a devastating disease that claims thousands of lives each year. Since that painful loss, I have been dedicated to raising awareness about pancreatic cancer, honoring my father, and supporting others who have been touched by this deadly cancer. One of the ways I've found solace is by seeing the City of Duluth's Enger Tower, illuminated in purple, standing tall each World Pancreatic Cancer Day since 2017. This powerful symbol of hope and remembrance means the world not just to me, but to the countless families who have been affected by this silent killer.

Unfortunately, the City of Duluth has recently decided to halt this tradition unless we are a registered non-profit organization. While this may seem like a benign technicality, the impact of canceling this tradition extends far beyond regulations. By denying the lighting of Enger Tower, we’re losing a vital public reminder about the seriousness of pancreatic cancer, which has one of the lowest survival rates, with a 5-year survival rate sitting at just 11%, according to the American Cancer Society.

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously aggressive and often goes undetected until it is too late. Lighting Enger Tower in purple not only commemorates those we’ve lost, like my father, but also brings much-needed awareness to the ongoing battle against pancreatic cancer. Increased awareness can lead to earlier detection and, ultimately, better outcomes for those afflicted.

What we are proposing is simple: Allow Enger Tower to be lit purple on World Pancreatic Cancer Day regardless of our organizational status. This gesture of solidarity is essential in the fight against pancreatic cancer and parallels similar events held across the globe. Duluth has always been a strong community that stands together in support of each other’s causes. By lighting Enger Tower in purple, we honor those who fought bravely and continue to fight pancreatic cancer and rally support for research and treatment that can save lives.

Join us in our plea to the City of Duluth to continue this meaningful tradition. Your signature on this petition will show that we, as a community, stand united against pancreatic cancer. Let us remember every father, mother, sibling, and friend who battled this disease by lighting Enger Tower purple this World Pancreatic Cancer Day. Please sign and help us spread awareness and hope.