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 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.”  

Interviews, Stories of Hope, Why I Give
Mayo Supporter Leads Research Mission Aboard the ISS

Larry Connor will be one of four civilians from around the world to take part in the flight.

Why I Give
Why I Give: Ellie Maricle

Mayo Clinic and its doctors and nurses have had an extremely positive effect on our family when my mom needed it most.  I want to help [...]