PanKind, The Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation

PanKind, The Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation was founded on a single principal – to raise money for pancreatic cancer research.

In July 2007, Avner Nahmani fell sick. Following two months of tests and pain, Avner was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer.

Thirteen months later, Avner passed away.

In July 2008, Avner’s partner, Caroline, together with his workplace Woolworths, founded the Avner Nahmani Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund with the hopes of raising $1 million to fund a trial.

Recently, the Foundation underwent a name-change to PanKind, The Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, a name with a direct connection to the reason the Foundation exists. The change reflects the ongoing evolution into a comprehensive organisation committed to increasing survival and quality of life for pancreatic cancer patients and their families around the country.

Since 2008, the Foundation has invested $7.6m into pancreatic cancer research, united over 25,000 Australians to raise funds and increase awareness, and have been instrumental in driving the pancreatic cancer agenda across the nation.

The Foundation committed to its first mission in 2012, aiming to see pancreatic cancer survival double by 2020. With that goal achieved, the sights have been set even higher for the next decade, focusing on:

Partnerships and collaboration to increase progress, impact and to meet the mission.
Increased engagement with clinicians with the creation of a Clinician Advisory Panel.
Advice from an internationally recognised Scientific Advisory Panel.
A clear research funding strategy across the entire pathway to build capacity, fast-track discovery and accelerate treatments to patients.
Increased support for patients and carers with the creation of valuable resources to assist them in their pancreatic cancer journey.
A strong relationship with Cancer Australia as a key Roadmap contributor.
Investment in building a stronger, more supportive community and supporter base through digital networks and platforms.