The LAM24 took place in February 2010 with several key events across the country in Dallas, New York, and the San Francisco Bay Area, as well as 24 hour commitments from the community. The purpose was to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer as well as funds for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, which works to advance research, support patients and create hope for those affected by pancreatic cancer. At total of $6770 was raised and dozens of individuals pledged commitments to spread awareness.

What does PanCAN do with the funds raised?
(From PanCAN’s Programs and Services website)
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is fully committed to providing the most comprehensive set of programs and services to fight this very difficult disease. Our commitment and passion are driven by our mission: to advance research, support patients and create hope for anyone facing pancreatic cancer.

The LAM24 Events

Running in Central Park, NYC
The New York event was held Feb 20, 2010 when 18 volunteers pledged to run the outer track of Central Park (~6.1 miles) in order to raise money and spread the word about pancreatic cancer research. Starting n a brisk but sunny morning, the group took to the park like a pack of wolves, passing fellow runners and stopping random strangers to talk about The LAM24′s cause and asking for donations. By the time the group had finished their run around the park, they had raised over $1,000 in support of The LAM24 and PanCAN.

Cycling in Dallas
The flagship effort of The LAM24 was a 24 hour cycling event held at Bicycles Plus in Coppell, TX. The event featured co-founder Chris Hsiao riding his bicycle on a stationary trainer for 24 consecutive hours to raise awareness and funds (more thoughts from our rider can be found here). Despite an inflamed IT band, Chris successfully finished the ride and was able to raise hundreds of dollars in walk-up donations. In his final minute of the ride, friends, family, and those directly affected by pancreatic cancer gathered to help him count down to the finish. Efforts were celebrated with much cake and much sleep.

Ordinary People would like to extend our gratitude for the team at Bicycles Plus for putting up with us for 24 hours and hosting the event. Without their efforts, this would not have been possible.

Garage Sale in SF Bay Area
The SF Bay Area branch of Ordinary People hosted a garage sale on February 28th in Sunnyvale with items donated from a variety of people, as well as baked goods by Cakes By Ji and a rabbit to help entertain the kids! Throughout the day, a steady stream of people came through to browse and buy items, and we explained that all proceeds were going to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Most people came for the shopping, but at least a few came for personal reasons when they saw proceeds were going to PanCan.

The event was a great way to get the word out about Pancreatic Cancer, and we raised over $350. Ordinary People would like to thank everyone who donated items to be sold and who helped coordinate day of activities!