Celebrating Lynne
We pay tribute to our dear friend, former trustee and Chair, Lynne Walker, who has sadly died.
Lynne will be deeply missed by us all, but her enduring legacy and profound impact will continue to live on through our work.
Ever since her first contact with Pancreatic Cancer UK a few years after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in 2009, Lynne was a passionate advocate and spokesperson for the charity and the cause.
Not least fronting our campaigns and telling her story to the media as one of our first volunteers of this kind but also by delivering keynotes, hosting panel discussions with healthcare professionals, and influencing politicians on what needs to change in pancreatic cancer treatment and care.
Being one of the small percentage of people able to have surgery for the disease led Lynne to want to help transform the future for others affected by pancreatic cancer. One of the most significant actions she took was to join our Board of Trustees.
Following that, Lynne stepped into the role of Chair in 2018 and expertly led our charity for many years, including through the pandemic. She was a pivotal part of our growth as a charity; using her story, networks and leadership to help raise awareness, influence change and bring in vital income.
In 2019, when she reached her ten-year milestone since her diagnosis, she said, “I think Dr Maya Angelou had it right with this:
“’You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them. My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.’”
We were lucky enough to see Lynne embrace this sentiment. She passionately and boldly supported every aspect of our work. It is thanks to Lynne’s guidance and leadership that we have made huge strides in bringing more than hope to all those affected by pancreatic cancer and she will forever have made her mark on Pancreatic Cancer UK.
With the blessing of Lynne’s family, we have set up a tribute page for you to share your memories and donate should you wish.