Pittsburgh-area woman swimming to fight pancreatic cancer

In a heartfelt effort to combat the disease that took her mother's life, a Pittsburgh-area woman, Judy Caves, is harnessing her passion for swimming to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research. Caves, an experienced swimmer with a personal connection to the cause, will be participating in the pancreatic charity swim on the Monongahela River alongside four other swimmers as part of the "PanCAN" initiative. Her determination stems from the devastating loss of her mother to pancreatic cancer in 2005, a disease known for its elusive nature in early detection. Having honed her swimming skills since high school and college, Caves sees this charity swim as her most significant challenge yet, driven by the hope that the funds raised will contribute to improved methods for early detection of pancreatic cancer. With her husband accompanying the swimmers in a kayak to ensure their safety amidst potential river hazards, Caves is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the fight against this insidious disease. Her altruistic endeavors extend beyond this event, as she has previously raised funds for various charitable causes in the Pittsburgh community. As Caves and her fellow swimmers prepare to embark on this challenging journey at sunrise, the symbolism of her personal journey intertwines with the collective effort to support pancreatic cancer research. Through her determination and commitment, she exemplifies the power of individuals coming together to make a difference in the face of adversity. The upcoming charity swim serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and compassion that drive individuals like Judy Caves to turn personal loss into a catalyst for positive change in the fight against cancer.