Podcast
Project Purple Podcast
Hosted by Project Purple Podcast · EN
Project Purple's vision is a world without pancreatic cancer. We have two initiatives: to help pancreatic cancer patients and fund research. With a variety of partners in the health and fitness world, our podcast will deliver an exciting look into our own background as well as the worlds of medical treatment, marathon running, crossfit, nutrition, stories of survival, inspiration, hope, and much more.
23episodes
Episodes
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Episode 329 - Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Beth Benedix
2w ago01:03:56Tap to summarizeJoining the Project Purple Podcast from Indiana, pancreatic cancer survivor Beth Benedix has a deeply reflective and powerful conversation with host Dino Verrelli. A professor emerita of world literature, religious studies, and community engagement at DePauw University, Beth is also the founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing joy and creativity back into classrooms: an effort that reflects her lifelong passion for education and human connection. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in June 2020, Beth recounts her sudden diagnosis in the emergency room after experiencing severe back pain. What followed was an intense journey that included complications from testing, weeks in the hospital with pancreatitis, chemotherapy, and the Whipple procedure. Despite being declared in remission, Beth shares the emotional and physical toll of a recent recurrence, including the frustration of not being heard by medical professionals when new symptoms arose years later. Beth speaks candidly about advocating for herself within a healthcare system that can often feel dismissive, drawing parallels to the education system and the broader challenge of creating spaces where people truly feel seen and heard. Beyond her medical journey, she also reflects on identity, creativity, and the process of making meaning in the face of illness—through music, relationships, and the ways she stays grounded in connection. Rejecting the traditional “fight” narrative often associated with cancer, Beth advocates instead for individuality in how people navigate their diagnoses. Grounded in an existentialist perspective and inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche’s idea to “become who you are,” Beth describes pancreatic cancer not only as a hardship, but as a vehicle for deeper self-understanding, connection, and even moments of unexpected beauty. From confronting fear and uncertainty to embracing joy, humor, and intentional relationships, Beth’s story offers a profound meditation on what it means to live fully in the face of the unknown. Beth welcomes connection via email at bbenedix@depauw.edu. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or donate to Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, visit projectpurple.org.
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Despina Siolas, M.D., Ph.D., on Project Purple's Pancreatic Cancer Research Recovery Grant - Project Purple Podcast Episode 328
Apr 2100:56:09Tap to summarizeIn this in-depth episode of the Project Purple Podcast, CEO & Founder Dino Verrelli welcomes Dr. Despina Siolas, a physician-scientist at Cornell University whose work spans both the clinic and the research lab. With an M.D. from Stony Brook School of Medicine, a Ph.D. in genetics from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and medical oncology training at NYU, Dr. Siolas brings a unique perspective to the fight against pancreatic cancer. Dr. Siolas shares her personal journey into medicine, inspired by her mother’s colon cancer diagnosis when she was just 16, and explains how her dual role as a clinician and researcher allows her to translate what she sees in the clinic directly into groundbreaking studies. She dives into the challenges and intricacies of studying KRAS mutations, found in 93% of pancreatic tumors, and how new insights and emerging therapies are finally offering hope for patients. Listeners will hear about the importance of genetic testing, the collaboration of diverse teams in her lab, and the role of patient advocacy in shaping research priorities. Dr. Siolas also discusses her experience as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, the necessity of systemic change in research, and how Project Purple’s Recovery Grant helped her continue critical work after unexpected funding challenges. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, advocate, or science enthusiast, this episode provides a powerful look at the intersection of patient care, genetic research, and innovative treatments, highlighting how progress in the lab can directly impact lives in the clinic. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. Read our press release to learn more about how Project Purple’s Pancreatic Cancer Research Recovery Grant is helping Dr. Siolas sustain her important work: https://www.projectpurple.org/project-purple-awards-weill-cornell-medicine-375k-to-advance-pancreatic-cancer-research/ You can follow Dr. Siolas for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/despina-siolas-md-phd-7249a982
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Episode 327 - Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Mark Allen Ruegg
Apr 701:00:22Tap to summarizeJoining the Project Purple Podcast from Marina del Rey, California, Stage 4 pancreatic cancer survivor Mark Allen Ruegg shares his extraordinary journey from a sudden, life-altering diagnosis to becoming a powerful advocate for healing and hope with host Dino Verrelli. Mark built a life rooted in creativity as a dancer and co-owner of a small production company with his wife until everything changed just over two years ago. What began as severe pain and an initial misdiagnosis of pancreatitis quickly spiraled into something far more serious. Diagnosed with a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma and given just 4–6 months to live, he was forced to confront the unimaginable: going from planning his future to being told he was terminal. But Mark refused to accept that outcome. Leaning on his large and supportive network, he and his family searched relentlessly for answers, ultimately connecting with a long-term survivor whose story shifted everything. From that moment on, Mark redirected his focus: not on dying, but on surviving. Grounded in the belief that mindset is a critical component of healing, he committed fully to what he calls his “healing bubble,” shutting out fear-driven narratives and focusing instead on positivity, presence, and possibility. Through a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, holistic practices, meditation, and intentional lifestyle changes, including nutrition and stress reduction, Mark approached his diagnosis from every angle. He emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment, reducing stress, and allowing the body the space to heal from within. Supported by his wife and family, and surrounded by messages of encouragement that now literally fill his home—letters covering the walls—Mark cultivated an environment rooted in hope and resilience. Today, in what doctors once called impossible, Mark shares that he has no detectable cancer in his body. His journey from a Stage 4 diagnosis to remission has not only transformed his own life but has also inspired him to guide and support others facing similar battles. Now stepping into a role of service, he shares his story to remind others that healing is possible, and that belief, mindset, and community can make all the difference. Mark welcomes connection through his Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markallenruegg/, where he also shares updates on his upcoming book and writing on Substack. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or donate to Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, visit projectpurple.org.
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Episode 326 - Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Matt Cassani
Mar 1001:00:05Tap to summarizeJoining the Project Purple Podcast from the Los Angeles area, film and television professional Matt Cassani sits down with host Dino Verrelli to share his experience being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at just 34 years old, and the long, uncertain road that followed. Matt opens up about the subtle but persistent symptoms he initially dismissed, including stomach discomfort and abdominal pressure, which he was initially told by doctors were diet-related. But when a coworker noticed he looked jaundiced during Mother’s Day weekend last year, a visit to urgent care quickly escalated, leading to a shocking Stage 2 pancreatic cancer diagnosis. From there, everything moved quickly. Matt discusses starting chemotherapy at UCLA, undergoing the Whipple procedure, and just recently completing treatment after months of physical and mental challenges. He reflects on what it means to face a disease often labeled as “something older people get,” and how his diagnosis reshaped his understanding of cancer among younger adults. He speaks about carrying the BRCA-2 gene, the importance of genetic awareness, and why advocating for yourself, and knowing when something isn’t right, can be life-saving. He also shares how stepping back from constant self-research, focusing on the present, and finding small grounding practices helped protect his mental health. Matt highlights the immense support of the people around him, the value of getting outside and celebrating small victories, and even the simple comforts that helped him cope, like building Legos and giving himself permission to enjoy treats along the way! Looking back, Matt describes pancreatic cancer as a painful, yet profound opportunity for reflection, one that ultimately pushed him to prioritize time with loved ones and approach life with deeper gratitude. Matt welcomes connection and can be found on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mattcassani/. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or donate to Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, please visit www.projectpurple.org.
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Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Rhonda Vavrek - Episode 325
Feb 1900:51:24Tap to summarizeJoining the Project Purple Podcast from sunny Venice, Florida, originally from Wisconsin, pancreatic cancer survivor Rhonda Vavrek sits down with host Dino Verrelli to share her remarkable journey through a changing diagnosis and what it truly means to keep going when the road is anything but straight. Rhonda shares how, in June 2012, what began as upper back pain and jaundice led to a pancreatic cancer diagnosis: something she never expected after a lifetime of good health. Initially staged at 2/2A, she qualified for the Whipple procedure and underwent chemotherapy before surgery. Post-Whipple, however, doctors discovered the cancer had metastasized to her liver and lungs, advancing her to Stage 4 and giving her an estimated six months to live. As she emphasizes, though, “Stage 4 does not mean we give up,” a mantra that carried her forward. She reflects on the many twists and turns that followed, including FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy, liver ablation, lung and rib surgeries, and more than five surgeries and 50 CT scans in total. Now NED since 2018, Rhonda speaks about what carried her through: an incredible team of doctors, surgeons, and nurses; her deep faith; and the unwavering support of her husband of nearly 45 years, whom she credits with pushing her forward when she wanted to stop. She also opens up about survivor’s guilt, scanxiety, and the importance of truly knowing your body and advocating for yourself. Rhonda mentions the role humor played in helping her cope, including naming her chemo port “George Clooney,” and why setting goals, giving yourself grace, and tuning out the noise of statistics can make all the difference. Her story is a powerful reminder that while pancreatic cancer is terrifying, the monster she describes it as does not get to take over your life. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or donate to Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, please visit www.projectpurple.org.
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Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Andy Lyons - Episode 324
Feb 500:54:45Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Project Purple Podcast, host Dino Verrelli sits down with Andy Lyons, a commercial photographer from the heart of the Midwest, Iowa, as he shares his deeply personal journey with familial pancreatic cancer. With a family history spanning three generations, affecting countless family members, including his grandmother, mother, and brother, Andy has long felt the shadow of this disease. Diagnosed in 2021 after over two decades of proactive screenings, including ultrasound endoscopies and genetic testing through research studies in Chicago and Pittsburgh, Andy was fortunate to catch his pancreatic cancer early. He reflects on the importance of vigilance and early detection, and how his experience demonstrates the power of knowledge, community, and persistence in managing a disease often considered a death sentence, even when it runs in your family. Andy shares the emotional and practical aspects of his journey: robotic surgery at UPMC, chemotherapy, the support of caregivers and his community, and the mental resilience that comes from maintaining humor, positivity, and hope. He emphasizes the importance of asking questions, connecting with other patients, and taking control of your health, summarized in the motto: “knowledge is power.” Through his story, Andy shows that pancreatic cancer is scary, but it’s not invincible. He talks about the strength found in numbers, the hope that comes from proactive care, and even the symbolic meaning of a survivor tattoo and a healing blanket passed among friends as a gesture of solidarity. You can reach Andy at andyboylyons@gmail.com. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or support Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, visit projectpurple.org.
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Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Rita Krueger - Project Purple Podcast Episode 323
Jan 2201:05:36Tap to summarizeJoining the Project Purple Podcast from Brownton, Minnesota, home to the land of 10,000 lakes, seven-year pancreatic cancer survivor Rita Krueger sits down with host Dino Verrelli to share her extraordinary story of perseverance, faith, and finding purpose after a life-altering diagnosis. Rita was diagnosed in March 2018, and soon learned she would need a full pancreatectomy: a life-changing surgery that would require her to adapt to an entirely new way of living. Her recovery was grueling, especially in the early months when eating made her profoundly ill, but Rita describes herself as tenacious. With the help of her unwavering determination, she slowly rebuilt her health and strength, eventually rediscovering normalcy in her daily life. After a 30-year career in IT, Rita’s journey took a new direction. Following her treatment, she wrote a book, Hope for an Outstanding Outcome, inspired by the many people who told her that her story gave them hope. Wanting to extend that encouragement to others, she founded ritaann.org, where she provides “survival packs” filled with helpful items, including her book, to individuals battling pancreatic cancer. The bags, army green in color, reflect the warrior mentality with which she describes helped her approach her own battle. Rita also opens up about the importance of faith, positivity, and community. She credits her “tribe,” the solid, supportive people around her, for helping her stay grounded during the hardest moments. Her husband even contributed reflections to each chapter of her book to share the caregiver perspective. Today, Rita works in her local school district, embracing a role she never imagined for herself. She continues to advocate for hope, connection, and empowerment for those facing pancreatic cancer, and reminds listeners that strength comes not only from physical recovery, but from the people and beliefs that carry you through it. To learn more about Rita, read her book, or support her mission, visit www.ritaann.org. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or donate to Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, please visit www.projectpurple.org.
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Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Pamela Deasy - Project Purple Podcast Episode 322
Jan 500:59:58Tap to summarizeTuning in from across the Atlantic, from Cork, Ireland, pancreatic cancer survivor Pamela Deasy joins host Dino Verrelli to offer a unique, international perspective on the realities of the disease, the power of perseverance, and insights for patients, families, and listeners worldwide in this episode of the Project Purple Podcast. Pamela shares that her journey began in the summer of 2018, when persistent fatigue and subtle symptoms signaled something was wrong. Told she was perimenopausal, or even just depressed, she trusted her instincts and continued advocating for herself. After a series of medical issues, including kidney stones and worsening jaundice, imaging confirmed a tumor in her pancreas. She recalls the moment vividly, initially fearing the worst. She walks listeners through the challenges of her treatment, including months of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and a life-saving, but very life-altering Whipple procedure. Pamela opens up about the grueling recovery that followed, from severe muscle loss and ascites, to the struggle to regain basic strength and mobility. She describes daily tasks like climbing stairs as ‘Kilimanjaro every day,’ showing the relentless determination required to rebuild her body and her life. By being open about the intimate sides of her journey, Pamela highlights the fears and vulnerabilities that people living with pancreatic cancer may feel and experience, but hesitate to voice. She discusses the isolation many pancreatic cancer patients feel, but the true importance of having someone to talk to who has “walked in your shoes.” To ensure everyone has this support, Pamela co-founded Pancreatic Cancer Ireland and advocates passionately for raising awareness, resources, and community for those affected by the disease. With this organization and her own advocacy, Pamela emphasizes that early awareness and support are invaluable, reminding listeners that even in the face of a life-altering diagnosis, resilience and hope can carry you forward. Follow Pamela on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/me_the_big_c_and_life_after Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or donate to Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, please visit www.projectpurple.org.
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Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Anne Dirkse - Episode 321
Dec 1700:59:35Tap to summarizeAnne Dirkse is an avid cyclist, endurance athlete, software developer, and lover of all things outdoors from Loveland, Colorado. On this episode of the Project Purple Podcast, she shares the personal philosophies that guide her through her Stage 4 pancreatic cancer journey. Diagnosed in March 2025, Anne draws on a lifetime of physical fitness, nutrition, and resilience to face the challenges of her disease with clarity and agency. She reflects on how subtle changes in her energy and eating habits prompted her to seek medical care, and how early scans missed the pancreatic mass despite her proactive screenings, highlighting the stealthy and aggressive nature of the disease. Rather than framing her experience as a battle, Anne focuses on what she can control: maintaining her exercise routine, prioritizing nutrition, and breaking daunting challenges into manageable steps. A lifelong adventurer, Anne shares how long-distance biking, backpacking, and other physical pursuits have shaped her mental and physical resilience. She also emphasizes the crucial role of family, friends, and her medical team in providing support, as well as how connecting with others who have faced pancreatic cancer has given her hope and perspective. Currently undergoing chemotherapy, Anne encourages listeners to find silver linings in the challenges, pursue what matters most to them, and live fully in the face of uncertainty, guided by the motto: “while we live, let us live.” You can reach Anne at https://annedirkse.com/ Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast for more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. To learn more or support Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, visit https://www.projectpurple.org/
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Surviving Pancreatic Cancer with Jon Fox - Episode 320
Dec 200:58:19Tap to summarizeJon Fox, a 41-year-old Staten Island native, shares his unique and inspiring journey on this episode of the Project Purple Podcast with host Dino Verrelli. Jon’s story begins unexpectedly at 37, when he was diagnosed with aggressive, metastatic testicular cancer: a diagnosis that would soon lead to the discovery of another, more unexpected health challenge: Stage 1 localized pancreatic cancer. Jon reflects on how the pancreatic tumor was found almost by accident during testing for his testicular cancer. Facing two serious medical battles at once, he underwent the Whipple procedure and a testicular cancer surgery simultaneously—a grueling combination that demanded resilience, patience, and determination. He candidly shares the brutal recovery that followed: months of intense complications, acute pancreatitis episodes, digestive struggles, and the ongoing challenge of learning how to live with a body transformed by surgery. Despite the hardships, Jon has channeled his experience into a passion for understanding the gastrointestinal system and the pancreas. His journey is driven by curiosity and the desire to improve his own quality of life, while helping others who face similar challenges. He shares critical lessons learned along the way: the importance of patience, giving your body time to heal, understanding nutrition and diet, and adopting a long-term mindset for recovery instead of rushing back to normal life too quickly. Jon emphasizes that every patient’s journey is unique, encouraging ongoing screenings and self-advocacy. With honesty and humor, he shares practical insights from his own experience, offering guidance for anyone navigating life after a Whipple procedure or dual cancer diagnoses. Subscribe to the Project Purple Podcast to hear more stories from the pancreatic cancer community. And, if you’d like to learn more about or donate to Project Purple’s mission of a world without pancreatic cancer, please visit https://www.projectpurple.org/.
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