A Slough church will be glowing purple in support for Pancreatic Cancer Day.

St Mary’s Church, Slough will be lighting up on Thursday, November 17, for World Pancreatic Cancer Day as part of the annual Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer campaign. 

Throughout Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month, landmarks and homes across the UK and worldwide will light up purple to put a spotlight on pancreatic cancer.

Nearly 10,500 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the UK each year and less than seven per cent of those diagnosed survive beyond five years. 

The disease currently receives just three per cent of UK cancer research funding, despite being the UK’s fifth biggest cancer killer.

Organised largely by individuals affected by pancreatic cancer, the campaign is not only a means to raise vital awareness but a way to remember loved ones who have sadly died and acknowledge those living with and beyond the disease.

Natalie Ruan and Rector Father Scott have arranged for St Mary’s Church, Slough to light up in memory of Roslyn Ruan, Natalie's mother who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 2021 and sadly lost the battle in May 2022.

Natalie said: "I am delighted to be raising awareness of this dreadful disease by taking part in the Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer campaign.

"I hope that by lighting up St Mary’s Church in purple, I will help put a spotlight on a disease that many people still know so very little about.”

Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer is supported by UK-based charities Pancreatic Cancer UK, Pancreatic Cancer Action and planets. 

If you would like to take part or find out more about Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer, please visit purplelightsuk.org.