Banner Health patients’ unlikely survival story inspires hope for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

GREELEY, Colo. (Nov. 11, 2025) – In recognition of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in November, Banner Health is raising awareness, sharing a story of strength and highlighting resources for patients and families affected by pancreatic cancer. Through innovative research and a compassionate, multidisciplinary approach at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in Northern Colorado, patients are finding renewed hope and improved outcomes in the fight against this devastating disease.

Windsor, Colo., resident and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center patient, Michael (Mike) Ramsey, recently shared his personal journey and survival story with pancreatic cancer. As the third leading cause of cancer death in the United States, stories like Ramsey's inspire hope. After a sudden illness in 2023, Ramsey was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic carcinoma. According to Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center medical oncologist Francis Hall, MD, only five percent of patients in Ramsey's situation live more than five years. With expert care at Banner, Ramsey underwent chemotherapy followed by surgery and pathology later revealed the chemotherapy had wiped out all signs of cancer.

"You look at life with a whole different set of eyes when it's threatened to be taken away from you," Ramsey said. "We don't know how much longer my run will be, but it's been extended, and whatever days I have left, I'm going to enjoy them. You have nothing but hope, so keep your chin up and keep going. It's possible."

This November, Banner invites everyone to join in raising awareness for pancreatic cancer by learning the symptoms, supporting loved ones and sharing stories of hope like Ramsey's. To learn more about pancreatic cancer care and resources, visit www.bannerhealth.com/services/cancer/cancer-type/pancreatic-cancer.

About Banner Health:

Banner Health is one of the largest, secular nonprofit health care systems in the country. In addition to 33 hospitals, Banner also operates an academic medicine division, Banner – University Medicine, and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, a partnership with one of the world's leading cancer programs, MD Anderson Cancer Center. Banner's array of services includes a health insurance division, employed physician groups, outpatient surgery centers, urgent care locations, home care and hospice services, retail pharmacies, stand-alone imaging centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation, behavioral health services, a research division and a nursing registry. To make health care easier, 100% of Banner-employed doctors are available for virtual visits and patients may also reserve spots at Banner Urgent Care locations and can book appointments online with many Banner-employed doctors. Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health also has locations in California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada and Wyoming. For more information, visit bannerhealth.com.