An Essex woman has vowed to spread awareness around one of the deadliest cancers as Colchester joins the mission.
Tina Assenheim, 57, sadly lost her husband Jason to pancreatic cancer in 2018.
What should have been a period of celebration and bliss after Tina’s 50th birthday and the couple’s 10th wedding anniversary ended in an insufferable loss to the entire family.
Tina said: “My late husband was diagnosed in April 2018. He passed away on June 23, only eight weeks later.
“That’s why I do what I do and what I’ve been doing for the past seven years.”
Her work for Pancreatic Cancer UK, a specialist charity offering advice and supporting research, has earned her the name Purple Lights Queen, as a purple ribbon symbolises the support and awareness network.
“This name makes me proud,” she said, “It’s a fitting name. I even got a sash with the name on it.
“It is what I’m meant to do. If I can help one person, I’ve done my job.
“It is very hard to diagnose and not much has changed over the years, which is why this is as important as ever.”
Whether it is organising or taking part in fundraisers, Tina, who lives in Southend, has made it her mission to spread awareness around the disease, which, unfortunately, is often detected late.
The charity is supporting research into an early detection method via breath analysis, which would allow patients to be treated at an earlier stage and increase the success of therapy.
Tina’s work also involves organising special lighting events, where landmarks are dipped into purple lights as part of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day, which is held in November.
This year, Colchester Council has announced its support.
A council spokesperson said: “Colchester City Council is proud to announce that the Town Hall will be illuminated in purple this November in support of Pancreatic Cancer UK’s Purple Lights campaign.
“This symbolic gesture aims to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer and show solidarity with everyone affected by this illness.
“We regularly light up our buildings throughout the year to support important causes, and we’re pleased to stand with communities and charities in shining a light on this vital issue.”
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