Why I Wear Purple: Brandon’s Story
Story
In Memory
Caregivers/Families
Signs & Symptoms
Awareness & Advocacy
There are voices in the healthcare system we rarely hear from, those working behind the scenes, shoulder to shoulder with people impacted by some of the most challenging diseases of our time. Throughout November, World Pancreatic Cancer Month, and beyond, we’re sharing those perspectives as a way to show real insight, grit and care. This is Alexa's story.
Alexa has spent more than fifteen years in surgical nursing. But it was five years ago, when her work turned toward hepatobiliary surgery and pancreatic cancer research, that something changed.
In 2024, Alexa took on a pivotal role as Pancreatic Cancer Research Coordinator at one of Queensland’s largest tertiary hospitals, a position funded by a Pankind research grant. It wasn’t just another job. It was a turning point.
I was working alongside some of the most committed clinicians I’ve ever met. People who were determined to do more for people with pancreatic cancer, not just clinically, but personally. That really stayed with me.
In this role, Alexa assists pioneering projects in early detection, work that gave her direct access to patients and families navigating a disease often diagnosed too late. It also opened her eyes to how much more needs to be done.
A personal connection that deepened the mission
Though Alexa’s connection to pancreatic cancer began professionally, it soon became personal. Several close friends and loved ones were diagnosed. Some are no longer here.
With every patient I’ve met, and every person I’ve known personally,I find myself asking the same question: How can I do more?
It’s not said lightly. Alexa has turned that question into action, helping advance early detection research, supporting surgical education, and raising awareness around quality of life for people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Last year, she took that drive a step further.
A ripple effect of hope
Alexa helped organise an inter-hospital swimming carnival in Brisbane, an event that raised vital funds for pancreatic cancer research and brought together clinicians, volunteers, and families affected by the disease.
The energy was electric. Every person there had a story. So many had lost someone, but they were still turning up, determined to help others. That kind of strength is what inspires me.
Some of the volunteers from that day have gone on to host their own events in support of Pankind’s work. It’s proof that when people come together with purpose, momentum builds, and it keeps going.
The power of early detection
Alexa’s time in research has made one thing clear: early detection changes lives.
Through her work, she has seen first-hand the promise of targeted therapies, genetic insights, and less invasive surgical options. She’s also seen how crucial it is to support the families and carers walking this road alongside their loved ones.
Hope doesn’t just come from medicine. It comes from people. From the courage they show, and the compassion we offer.
This November and December, Alexa will wear purple scrubs to honour every person who has faced pancreatic cancer, those still navigating the disease and those who are no longer with us. She’ll also wear them to remind her colleagues of the collective responsibility they hold.
I want more clinicians to get involved. To step up and support research. To listen, to ask more questions, and to fight for better outcomes. There is hope. Research is progressing. Treatments are improving. But none of this is possible without organisations like Pankind, and the people who support them.
Alexa’s ask goes beyond World Pancreatic Cancer Month
This November was World Pancreatic Cancer Month. Now in December, Alexa invites others to continue showing up. Whether it’s raising awareness, supporting research, or simply checking in with someone affected, every action counts.
Because when the stakes are this high, silence is not an option. And when we act together, we move closer to a future where pancreatic cancer is no longer a devastating diagnosis, but a disease we can detect early, treat effectively, and talk about with hope.
