I am honored to assist my family and participate in their accomplishments in the fight against pancreatic cancer. Each and every one of you reading this can hopefully relate to these words that come from my heart. I am 31-years-old now, married, with a baby girl due in October—Jessica Rayne Hirshberg. Life is moving so quickly. I think about my father, Ron Hirshberg—for whom the foundation is named—and the words of wisdom he would have undoubtedly offered at this time in my life. I wonder, did he sit around with my mom and talk about baby names for hours? Did they read books together? Was my mom as crazy as my wife Nicole during pregnancy? (Just kidding Nicole…I love you) Was he nervous about bringing Lisa (my sister) and me into this crazy world? Did he change diapers? My parents were so young.
It hurts so much knowing my pops will never get to hold my children; never get to teach them the words of wisdom he taught me; take them to breakfast at Nate and Al’s; take them boating and for rides on his motorcycles. He will always be their grandfather; always be looking out for my little ones from above as he has looked out for me. I can only imagine my Dad’s big smile when Jessica is born. Trust me, when she is born, I will look up at the sky and know that he is watching over us. The one thing I will strive for most with my kids is a “magical” relationship like I had with my pop. We created magical memories I cherish everyday. Memories are real! Memories are what we take with us from our adventures. Wonderful memories are what I want to be able to leave my children with when it is my time to go.
If you are a son or daughter who has lost a parent, take a moment to look at the sky. Your loved ones are up there making sure everything is okay. If you are a grandmother or grandfather, grab your little ones and create the memories for them to cherish. Life is short, seize the day and live it 24/7.
I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for your support of the Foundation through the years. We will not stop our fight until we find a cure for pancreatic cancer. Family and friends are the soul of the Foundation and without your efforts and support we would not have been able to get to where we are today. I also want to thank Agi for her endless energy and tireless commitment to the Foundation. We have great plans for the future and our families and friends are growing and making us stronger as a fighting machine against this disease. I look forward to the bright future of The Hirshberg Foundation. Together, we will build a place where you and your families can create your magical memories together.
Thank you for your time and don’t forget to look at the sky and smile.
Twenty years after the loss of his father Ron Hirshberg, Jon is more passionate than ever about winning the fight against pancreatic cancer. His creative insight and drive have played a pivotal role in raising millions of dollars through Hirshberg Foundation signature events including the LA Cancer Challenge and Tour de Pier. Jon continues to share his dad’s story and bring this disease to the forefront in his community. He remains committed to winning the fight against pancreatic cancer and never giving up!