CONTACT US
Melissa Gilbert wrapped in the Modern Prairie x PanCAN Scalloped Throw
She’s famously known for playing “Half Pint” on “Little House on the Prairie,” but there’s nothing small about Melissa Gilbert’s commitment to improving the lives of everyone affected by pancreatic cancer.
And now, just in time for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in November, Modern Prairie – Melissa’s and her business partner Nicole Haase’s lifestyle brand – is supporting PanCAN by launching a specially curated collection: Modern Prairie x PanCAN. Proceeds* from the collection will benefit PanCAN, funding vital resources, services and research that drive progress for this disease.
In 1991, Melissa lost her mentor, acting partner, favorite director, father figure, friend and boss, Michael Landon, to pancreatic cancer. And in 2009, Melissa lost her dear friend Patrick Swayze, whom she had known since the early 80s.
More than 30 years later, she is more committed than ever to honoring Michael’s legacy and Patrick’s memory, educating her community and fighting for the future.
“Michael Landon was one of the greatest influences on my life. His death left an enormous hole in the lives of those of us who knew him personally as well those who simply admired his work. And years later, when I learned that Patrick was diagnosed, I was terrified for him,” said Gilbert.
“Obviously, this is not a fight I can take on myself and that is why I am so grateful for PanCAN. I can take my anger and use it to support this extraordinary organization. PanCAN is truly a one-of-a-kind resource for people whose lives are impacted by pancreatic cancer.”
PanCAN is grateful for Melissa’s support, too.
“Like so many others, I grew up watching Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbert on “Little House on the Prairie,” so it’s such an honor to get to work with Melissa, Nicole and their company on this initiative,” said Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA, president and CEO of PanCAN. “We are so grateful to her and this opportunity to pay tribute to both Michael and Patrick by spreading awareness and raising money to create progress for pancreatic cancer patients.”
From tote bags to pie carriers, there will be something that everyone will love.
The Modern Prairie x PanCAN capsule collection is set to debut today, also marking a significant milestone: the 50th anniversary of the beloved hit series “Little House on the Prairie” this fall.
The limited-edition collection features a special “lavender bloom” pattern to honor the color of pancreatic cancer awareness, purple. From tote bags to pie carriers, there will be something that everyone will love.
A longtime supporter of pancreatic cancer education, Gilbert participated in PanCAN PurpleStride, the ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer, in 2022 with her team, Prairie Strong, to raise funds and awareness.
And now, to help educate her community about pancreatic cancer, Melissa will host a workshop on Thursday, November 14 at 9 a.m. PT/Noon ET on her Modern Prairie platform featuring PanCAN’s Chief Scientific Officer Lynn Matrisian, PhD, MBA, who will talk about the risks and symptoms of the disease and what to know if you or a loved one is diagnosed. Register for free here.
A big PanCAN thank-you to Melissa. We’re grateful for her unwavering commitment to creating a world where everyone affected by pancreatic cancer will thrive.
For more information on the Modern Prairie x PanCAN special collection of products, visit Modern Prairie.
*PanCAN will receive the following amounts from the sale of each item: Scalloped Throw $25, Roll-up Sewing Kit $10, Tote Bag $9, Bonnet $8, Pie Carrier $6, Pocket Squares $5.
