Ken Brown at the finish line of the Chicago Sprint Triathlon.

Ken Brown was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2013, undergoing a successful Whipple surgery in January 2014. Since then, he has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with his cancer surgeon, participated in three Chicago Sprint Triathlons to benefit PanCAN and spoke at PanCAN PurpleStride Chicago. When he tells others, “Don’t let a cancer diagnosis defeat you,” it’s clear he lives by those words himself.

Ken’s triathlon adventures began in 2023 to commemorate his 10th anniversary of survival and to support his friend, Wendy, who was dealing with her own pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Wendy passed away in 2024.

Ken Brown during the bike portion of the Chicago Sprint Triathlon

“Wendy’s heroic fight against the disease has ended,” said Ken. “But the fight against pancreatic cancer (and all cancers) goes on every day. I made a vow last year that as long as I am physically able, I will attempt to participate in the Sprint Tri event on an annual basis to spread awareness, motivate others and demonstrate that anything is possible.”

This year’s tri event was special for Ken for a couple of reasons. The weather was perfect, the water was 72 degrees and he finished in two hours and 15 minutes. But what made it really special was the appearance of Dr. Malcom Bilimoria, the surgeon who performed Ken’s Whipple procedure.

Ken Brown reacts as he sees his cancer surgeon, Dr. Malcom Bilimoria, during the Chicago Sprint Triathlon

“Other than my family and Wendy, I have never seen anyone else that I know during the event,” said Ken. “So, imagine my surprise when during the run portion of the event — I was walking — I heard and saw Dr. Bilimoria, who was instrumental in saving my life, cheering me on!!”

Ken was grateful to have the support and guidance of his family throughout his diagnosis and treatment. But he clearly understands how important it is for PanCAN to be able to offer support and resources to everyone. Ken has raised more than $43,000 to support PanCAN.

Ken Brown’s collection of pancareatic cancer awareness bracelets.

“I encourage everyone to ‘go live their dreams’ despite a cancer diagnosis,” said Ken. “It doesn’t have to be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro with your cancer surgeon or starting to participate in sprint triathlons for fundraising at age 74, like I have been so fortunate to do. Start a new hobby, go on a trip or take a long walk with friends. Continue to do what you did before your diagnosis.

“I continue to believe that anything is possible. Look at the incredible improvements in the survival rates, advocacy and awareness since I was diagnosed in 2013. Pam (PanCAN Founder Pamela Acosta Marquardt) told me that she believes there will be earlier detection for the disease. I agree and I’ve added that to my bucket list and I hope to be around to celebrate when that happens.”

How will you shine a light on pancreatic cancer during November?