Why I Give

Why I Give: Judi Zitiello

In 2013 I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Internet searches are terrifying because there is only a 9 percent survival rate for five years. This cancer grows deep within your body, and the symptoms are often misdiagnosed. Typically it has metastasized to other vital organs, rendering it inoperable.

The tumor had grown around an artery, making the Whipple procedure even more challenging, but my surgeon was able to remove it. Today I am four years cancer-free.

God gave me this time, and I am going to make the most of it. With others, I hold a celebrity golf event called Champions for Hope to raise awareness and fund research to find an early detection method for pancreatic cancer.

I feel confident the research team at Mayo will discover a test that will give countless others a longer life. ■

— Judi Zitiello
Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
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Cancer Florida Pancreatic cancer Why I Give
Why I Give
Why I Give: Jim and Nadine Kobs

"Tackling the toughest health care challenges is what Mayo does best. No wonder they are ranked so highly in so many medical areas. That’s why we decided to support Mayo Clinic’s mental health programs."

Why I Give
Why I Give: Julie and Fred Crandall

"To say the level of care at Mayo is unique is an understatement, and it is something I have not experienced anywhere else. When one hears that the patient comes first at Mayo, it is true. I have no words to thank Mayo Clinic. Mayo has given me the gift of extending my life. I am grateful that I can give back and know that in some way I am helping to make a difference.”

Why I Give
Why We Give: Pennie and Joe Di Prima 

“Mayo Clinic is a special place — it’s the cohesiveness, competency and compassion shown by the doctors and staff and the immediate follow-up. The level of care is just so different, and it’s a pleasure to be on campus. All in all, it’s just such a fantastic organization. We believe in giving back, and it gives us such joy to give to Mayo.”