In February of 2016, Mark Campbell and his family started an online fundraiser supporting our foundation in memory of his sister, Bonnie Pavlasky, who passed away from esophageal cancer.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is honored to carry out this mission in memory of Bonnie and we are very appreciative of her family and friends for creating it and donating in her name. Below is an excerpt from the fundraising page:
“Bonnie passed away on January 30, 2016 after putting up a valiant fight for two and a half years. While she was initially diagnosed with esophageal cancer, it spread throughout her body despite her doctors’ best efforts. She fought to the very end and never gave up mentally. Unfortunately, her body could not keep pace with her. Bonnie Pavlasky was a loving mother, wife, daughter, sister and friend.
Once Bonnie began exhibiting signs of esophageal cancer, even her primary care physician mistook them for something else, most likely because she appeared to be a young, healthy woman. While of course the hope is that a cure for the disease will be found someday, the goal of educating people on early detection and lifestyle changes to prevent esophageal cancer is a worthy one.”
Bonnie with husband Rob, daughter Stephanie, and son Joey.
Bonnie with husband, Rob.
Esophageal cancer is considered one of the fastest growing and deadliest cancers in the United States and other western countries. Unfortunately, this means that it is increasingly affecting both men and women of all ages and ethnicities.
Bonnie Pavlasky.
As Mark stated above, Bonnie did not “fit the mold” when it came to a diagnosis of esophageal cancer. Often times, doctors will not even think of esophageal cancer, despite patients showing symptoms of esophageal cancer, since these patients do not fit the demographics they feel are “typical” of esophageal cancer (older Caucasian males).
This leads to many becoming diagnosed in later stages when the cancer has progressed and becomes difficult, if not impossible, to treat.
It is our hope that you will share Bonnie’s story and encourage all of your family and friends to do so as well. We also ask that you join us in thanking Bonnie’s family and friends and share their page to help raise awareness and honor Bonnie.
To visit their fundraising page, please click here. Thank you!
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation 