When you have a bar mitzvah, it is a tradition to do a mitzvah project. The word "mitzvah" means a good deed.

As part of my bar mitzvah preparation, it did not take long to decide what would be a good way for me to give back and do a good deed.  In honor of my Aunt Susie I will be raising money for PANCAN. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is a charity that funds research, provides patient support, conducts community outreach, and advocates for increased federal funding for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

My Aunt Susie was 64 years old and passed away in 2015 after suffering from pancreatic cancer for 8 months. I loved her very much because she was very sweet and thoughtful. She loved shoes as much as I do and we used to count shoes to see who had more. Aunt Susie lived in Florida and we would always play pool volleyball and card games during our visits. I have a very close relationship with my Uncle Vinny and my cousins, Loren, Andie, Maya and Evan.

This loss was the first time I was old enough to realize what losing someone meant and to lose someone who in my mind was too young. I couldn't save my aunt but I would really like to raise money to try to help other people suffering from the same disease that she did. I would really appreciate if you would join me in donating to this cause. Of course this is completely voluntary but every little bit helps.  You can either donate on this fundraising page or there will be a place for you to make a donation at my bar mitzvah service and/or party. The website does allow your donation to be anonymous if you prefer.   I will be donating a portion of my bar mitzvah money which I am so glad to give. 

Thank you so much!

Jake