Meet Gayle

Gayle Pendleton, caregiver
Louisville, Kentucky

Gayle's Story

I lost my brother, Michael, to colon cancer in 2009. He lived for only four months after his diagnosis. Michael was 52 years old at the time and had few symptoms prior to being diagnosed in late June 2009. Unfortunately, by that time, the cancer had already spread; it was too late. Those final four months were the most agonizing months of our lives. My brother was dying and there was nothing that could be done about it.

Michael moved to live closer to our family, and we were able to throw one final birthday party for him. We spent time with him and cared for him. Michael wrote each of us a goodbye letter and even ensured that we knew the songs he wanted played at his funeral. He never complained, never stopped believing and kept his faith strong - I never knew such strength existed.

Michael attended and worked at Trevecca Nazarene University. Last year, the college founded a scholarship in his memory, to honor him and to bring awareness to this terrible disease.

Michael was only 53 years old when he passed, and he was one of nine siblings. Our family shares our story in hopes to increase awareness and prevent this from happening to anyone else.

What One Million Strong Means to Gayle

One Million Strong means to our family that together we can stop this disease, save lives and that we won't stop until there is a cure.

Gayle's advice

Tell everyone that a simple screening could save your life, or a loved one’s. There is hope if we all join the fight!