It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic losses of Jim Burson, father of Jamie Burson, owner of Great Bay Spa & Sauna, and Barbara Howland, Jamie’s mother-in-law, both of whom succumbed to pancreatic cancer. 

Jim passed away on January 27th, 2024, after a brief battle with the disease. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, Jamie says his father began experiencing symptoms such as dizziness and overall unwellness. About four to five weeks later he was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer which had already spread to his liver and other parts of his body. Despite treatment early on, Jim only lived eight more weeks before passing away.

in loving memory of James E. Burson

Similarly, Barbara, who passed away on July 15, 2023, also faced minimal symptoms, such as unwellness and loss of appetite, before her diagnosis, which unfortunately came too late for clinical treatment. Like Jim, she was also diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer about four weeks after her symptoms first appeared.

in loving memory of Barbara Howland

Both Jim and Barbara were diagnosed at the age of 77, highlighting the urgent need for early detection methods for this silent killer. In honor of their memory and the impact of pancreatic cancer on his family, Jamie is committed to raising awareness and supporting others affected by this devastating disease. Through collaboration with the Pancreatic Cancer Network (PanCan), Jamie says he hopes to contribute to research efforts and provide assistance to those facing financial and emotional burdens associated with pancreatic cancer.

Understanding the Numbers: Pancreatic Cancer Statistics

Pancreatic Cancer is one of the deadliest cancers. It has the lowest five-year survival rate of any cancer at just 12% according to the American Cancer Society. 

Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It’s estimated that by the year 2030 pancreatic cancer will rise as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Despite its prevalence, researchers have yet to determine the exact cause of most pancreatic cancer and unfortunately, there are no standard early-detection tests available for pancreatic cancer at this time. 

However, organizations like the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCan) offer help and hope. Their mission is to take bold action to improve the lives of everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer by advancing scientific research, building community, sharing knowledge, and advocating for patients.

In honor of Jim Burson and Barbara Howland who are close to our hearts and tragically lost their lives to pancreatic cancer, Great Bay Spa and Sauna stands with PanCAN to improve the lives of those affected by this devastating disease.

Your contribution funds life-changing programs and services for patients and their families. Because of you, they will receive essential services, resources, information, and support when they are urgently seeking help and hope. They need you now more than ever.

We are grateful for your generous donation.

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Visit pancan.org to explore their services and programs, make a donation or learn more.