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(L-R) Lisa Kulok, Lizz Sanchez and PanCAN President and CEO Julie Fleshman.
Each year, the Carol Kulok Award for Compassion shines a light on the extraordinary individuals who bring empathy, humanity and hope to patients and families facing pancreatic cancer. In 2026, we are proud to honor Lizz Sanchez as the sixth recipient of this meaningful award – an individual who truly exemplifies compassion in action.
Established in memory of Carol Kulok, the award reflects a legacy rooted in kindness and care. After losing her mother to pancreatic cancer in 2016, Lisa Kulok partnered with PanCAN to create a lasting tribute – one that recognizes a PanCAN Patient Services Case Manager each year who mirrors Carol’s spirit. Through Lizz, that spirit continues to live on in powerful and inspiring ways.
Since joining PanCAN in July 2021, Lizz has made an extraordinary impact. Now a Senior Case Manager, she has been promoted each year – an achievement that speaks to her exceptional performance, leadership and dedication. Selected by a committee of Patient Services leadership, Lizz stood out for her professionalism, reliability and the deep, meaningful connections she builds with every person she connects with.
(L-R) Lisa Kulok, PanCAN Patient Services members Brianne Flores, Karina Gutierrez, Ericka Ramirez, Lizz Sanchez, and President and CEO Julie Fleshman.
“I’m truly honored to receive the Carol Kulok Award for Compassion. Compassion is truly at the heart of this work. Having once been a caregiver myself, I know what it feels like to be facing uncertainty, searching for answers, and trying to support someone you love through an incredibly difficult time. That experience shaped and embodies how I approach every conversation.
“Being able to listen, provide guidance and remind patients and families that they’re not alone is deeply meaningful to me. This recognition reflects the privilege of walking alongside patients and caregivers during some of the hardest moments of their lives and supporting them with empathy, understanding and care.”
Lizz’s calm, warm presence immediately puts others at ease. She listens with intention, responds with empathy and consistently goes above and beyond – often volunteering for additional responsibilities and leading key projects. Her commitment to continuous learning ensures she provides the highest level of support, while her emotional intelligence makes her a steady and trusted voice for patients, families and colleagues alike.
“As we recognize Lizz with this year’s Carol Kulok Award for Compassion, we are reminded that true impact is measured not only in outcomes, but in how we show up for one another,” said PanCAN President and CEO Julie Fleshman. “Lizz brings heart, understanding and unwavering dedication to every interaction. She represents the very best of PanCAN and carries forward Carol’s legacy in a way that inspires us all.”
Through her compassion, leadership and unwavering commitment, Lizz doesn’t just honor Carol’s legacy – she brings it to life every single day.
