SHERBURNE – Every year, more than 500,000 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer world-wide.

For Sherburne resident Kari Buck, that diagnosis hit home last year, but instead of letting fear of the unknown control her, Kari and husband Rob Buck decided to organize an event to help raise money to help others impacted by the disease.

On Sunday, July 5, the Project Purple Independence Day Double Mile for Early Detection Walk will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Marauder Stadium in Sherburne. So far, 35 people have signed up to walk and raise money for research on the early detection of pancreatic cancer.

Kari and Rob began the walk in 2025 as a way to fight back against the diagnosis. “We found Project Purple online and threw the first event together in a month,” Rob remembered.

“Last year we raised $2,000.” This year, the couple has already surpassed last year’s total.

While walkers generally sign up and raise money prior to the event, Rob said people can stop by on Sunday to donate to the cause and walk the two miles on the high school track. Participants pledge to walk two miles, or eight laps on the track. Many Project Purple events take place virtually, with participants walking whenever they have the time, but Kari and Rob want to bring people together to share support for those battling the disease and memories of those who have lost the fight.

Food and water will be available at the event for those who participate. “We want to get the word out about early detection,” said Rob.

Pancreatic cancer is a dangerous disease. The five -year survival rate is just 13%, due in part to the fact that it shows few early symptoms, the majority of those impacted by the disease are not diagnosed until the late stage. Project Purple’s mission is to combat that. According to the group’s website, “Project Purple is a non-profit organization empowering the fight against pancreatic cancer. Our unwavering commitment is fueled by the pursuit of raising awareness, driving crucial research, and providing aid for patients who are battling this disease.”

The local Sherburne walk is part of Project Purple’s virtual Independence Day Walk. Nationwide, that event has raised over $62,000 for pancreatic cancer. To join the walk or donate to the event, visit charity.pledgeit.org/idd26 or stop by Marauder Stadium on Sunday.

Project Purple will also be part of this year’s Boilermaker Event in Utica.

For more information about Project Purple, visit their website at www.projectpurple.org.