Fran Lutterman shared fond memories about her late husband with Global’s Laura Casella as she prepares for her annual ski trip to Sutton.
For the past 20 years, Lutterman has organized the Ski for a Cure memorial trips as fundraisers for the Cancer Research Society.
“After he was diagnosed, a few of our friends got together and we decided, we need to celebrate his life,” she said.
“It took everyone by surprise, it was a devastating time. He was a joyful, joyous, energetic, and adventuresome skier and person.”
Rob Lutterman lost his battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 63, and the memorial fund is the first of its kind at the Cancer Research Society. It promotes research specifically for pancreatic cancer and has already advanced the field.
In 2018, researchers from across the country, including a team from McGill University, started work on new personalized treatment programs for patients with pancreatic cancer. The disease has a five-year survival rate of only nine per cent.
“The personalized medicine will help increase the survival rate of inoperable, late-stage pancreatic cancer patients by administering specific, adapted treatments to their cancer subtype,” said Sonia Chatoyan of the Cancer Research Society.
Over the years, Ski for the Cure has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the cause. Lutterman hopes the recent winter storm has created perfect ski conditions for her weekend event.
“He was in love with his family, but his second love was skiing,” Lutterman said.
“It’s just a joyous, happy day. It has been a perfect ski day for the last 20 years, and we know he is there in spirit because the sun is always shining.” Lutterman said.
Her husband’s passion for ski lives on through those who attend the annual event, but also the generous online donors.
If you would like to donate online or in person on Mount Sutton, you can find all the information on skiforacure.ca
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