Tommy Thompson’s Personal Journey: A Dedicated Commitment to Advancing Pancreatic Cancer Research
Former Wisconsin Governor Tommy G. Thompson has a profound understanding of cancer’s devastating impact, stemming from his personal experiences. A survivor of skin cancer, Thompson has also witnessed his family grapple with breast cancer, including his wife, sister, and two daughters. He poignantly states, “It feels like I carry the burden of cancer on my back.” However, it is pancreatic cancer that has become his primary focus, as he champions awareness and research initiatives.
Shedding Light on Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer stands as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Its stealthy nature makes it particularly dangerous, as symptoms such as stomach pain and fatigue often go unrecognized until the disease has reached advanced stages. Thompson emphasizes, “Many individuals remain unaware of their condition until it’s too late.”
Thompson’s personal connection to this disease is heart-wrenching. His younger brother, Ed, who served as the former mayor of Tomah, Wisconsin, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after experiencing severe abdominal pain during his state senate campaign. Initially mistaking his condition for flu, Ed’s diagnosis came too late—doctors gave him only six months to live.
Thompson recalls, “Witnessing a once-strong man succumb to such a ruthless illness was truly heartbreaking.” Tragically, that year also saw his close friend and farming partner, Ervin Schulz, pass away from the disease. Just two years later, Thompson’s youngest brother, Artie, faced a similar fate, losing his battle with pancreatic cancer just eight months post-diagnosis.
Advocating for Early Detection
The loss of three loved ones to pancreatic cancer ignited Thompson’s mission. For over a decade, he has traversed the nation to elevate awareness and secure funding for pancreatic cancer research. His commitment even saw him biking across Wisconsin to support local scientists focused on innovative early detection methods.
“What matters most is fostering research in early detection,” Thompson asserts. “When pancreatic cancer is identified early, treatment options improve significantly. Unfortunately, the disease progresses rapidly once it gains a foothold.”
Through his philanthropic efforts, Thompson, alongside the late Michael Neidorff, former CEO of Centene, successfully raised $5 million for the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center. This funding aims to advance research into early detection techniques for pancreatic cancer. Additionally, they contributed $25 million to the Mayo Clinic to explore life-extending therapies for cancer patients. Thompson continues to play an active role, participating in endoscopic ultrasounds at the Mayo Clinic to help researchers examine potential genetic links among family members affected by pancreatic cancer.
As Thompson approaches his 81st birthday this November, his passion for raising awareness about pancreatic cancer shows no signs of waning. Reflecting on his brother’s last words, he shares, “On his deathbed, Ed took my hand and urged me to find a cure for this disease.” With a heartfelt commitment, Thompson is determined to honor that promise and continue his fight against pancreatic cancer.
