Lisa Sjogren is running in Purple Paddy’s Virtual 5k in honor of her father, Tom Simonet, who is currently battling stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Through this race, she is channeling her love and support for him to raise awareness and vital funds for others facing the same fight.
Interested in walking or running this 5k on St. Patrick’s Day Weekend? You can check it out here.
Tom’s Diagnosis
Tom initially went to the doctor with concerns of jaundice. After a scan, it was discovered that there was a growth on his pancreas. He was referred to interventional radiology for further evaluation. Tom was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer on May 7, 2024, and immediately began chemotherapy on May 10.
Despite the difficult prognosis, Tom remains resilient, fighting his diagnosis with unwavering determination, and Lisa, moved by her father’s strength, has made it her mission to not only support him but also raise awareness and money for patient aid and research with Project Purple.
A Family Legacy of Running
Lisa attributes her love of running to her father. Tom’s influence on her love for the sport dates back to her high school years when she ran track and cross country. But it was during her mother, Susan’s, battle with colon and liver cancer that Lisa rediscovered the therapeutic benefits of running.
“I got back into running when my mum was sick because it really helped my mental health. It was something I could do and not feel completely overwhelmed by what she was going through,” says Lisa.
Even during the pandemic, when many people faced isolation, Lisa and her sister, Sarah, found community with She Climbs Mountains, a Minnesota-based motherless daughters group. This group kept them well-connected and active during those long months.
Running has always been a significant part of Tom’s life as well. He ran track and cross country in high school and continued to run as part of his training while serving in the military. Tom describes running as “a release” and a way to do something good for oneself amidst life’s challenges.
Lisa joked, “He is probably the one person I know who can run a full marathon without training.”
When Tom was asked about this, he humorously reminisced, “That goes way back to 1983. That was a bygone era when I didn’t have very many brain cells between my left and right ear.”
Family Support
Tom has always been a source of motivation for Lisa. She recalls running Disney’s Springtime Surprise race in 2023, with the Florida heat adding an extra layer of challenge to the ten-mile race.
“I’m not used to Florida weather. I am a Minnesota girl through and through. So I decided I needed to overheat while I was running,” she recalls with a laugh. “Dad coached me to get me through to the point where I wouldn’t get swept. I fumbled my way to the finish line.” Both Lisa and Tom laughed about how sore they were the next day, especially walking down the steps of a Disney ride.
Now, Lisa is running to honor her father. “There’s a lot of pride in that,” Tom says of his daughter’s efforts. He enjoys watching his children achieve their goals and is proud to see Lisa continue the family tradition of running while also supporting a cause close to their hearts.
A Fighter and Relentless Optimist
Lisa describes her father as “a fighter and a relentless optimist.” This is a trait she shares, as both father and daughter dive headfirst into everything they do, fully committed and determined. Tom is also grateful for the unwavering support from his wife, Sharon, who has been by his side every step of the way. “She’s making sure it all works out for us,” Tom says of his wife, who has taken on the role of researcher and guide, helping the family navigate the complexities of his cancer journey.
Purple Paddy’s 5k
In November 2024, Lisa took on Project Purple’s virtual Turkey Trot 5k, and now she’s preparing for the upcoming Purple Paddy’s 5k, another virtual event that will be held over the weekend of St. Patrick’s Day, March 14-17, 2025. Participants from across the country can walk, jog, or run 3.1 miles whenever and wherever they can; Lisa plans to run on her treadmill at home.
For Lisa, this race is more than just a run – it’s a chance to honor her father’s legacy, raise awareness for pancreatic cancer, and contribute to research and patient aid for those affected by the disease. Lisa’s dedication to this cause is a testament to the love and support she has for her father.
If you’d like to run or walk in Purple Paddy’s 5k like Lisa, sign up here!
