Ron's Run, a Kentucky Derby–themed gala that has become one of Greater Hartford’s signature charity events, anchors the year-round work of the Ron Foley Foundation (RFF) and sets the stage for a month of action each November during National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
Founded in memory of Ron Foley, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2005, the nonprofit funds patient assistance, education and research while rallying the community around a disease that remains one of the deadliest cancers.
The 16th annual Ron’s Run for the Roses drew supporters to Farmington Polo Club on May 3, continuing a tradition that began with a backyard Kentucky Derby party in 2009. It has since grown into a polished, high-impact fundraiser that raises money and awareness to pancreatic cancer research.
The Derby-day format—hats, seersucker and spirited auctions—raises dollars and visibility in equal measure, with proceeds fueling programs that assist patients and caregivers, underwrite medical research, and drive public awareness across Connecticut.
That momentum carries into November, when RFF aligns local efforts with National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and World Pancreatic Cancer Day, a global observance held on the third Thursday of November (this year on Nov. 20, 2025).
The foundation’s November programming typically includes community education, social-media campaigns and partner events designed to “turn the town purple,” spotlight symptoms, and encourage early conversations with clinicians—key steps given pancreatic cancer’s often late diagnosis.
Awareness Month is more than a color palette. National and international coalitions emphasize symptom recognition (such as unexplained weight loss, jaundice and new-onset diabetes), risk-factor education, and the importance of clinical trials—messaging that RFF amplifies locally through talks, media appearances and collaborations with area hospitals and businesses. The World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition, of which leading U.S. nonprofits are members, marks the month with coordinated campaigns and digital events to boost literacy and support.
For RFF, the through-line from May to November has a practical impact. Funds raised at Ron’s Run and subsequent activities support direct grants and patient-aid initiatives—help that can cover transportation, household bills or other urgent needs while families navigate treatment. The foundation also backs research and education, including programs with Hartford Hospital and community partners that keep the conversation going beyond a single gala or a single day.
With World Pancreatic Cancer Day falling on Nov. 20 this year, organizers are urging residents, schools and businesses to light buildings purple, host awareness days, and share stories that honor loved ones and survivors.
Paired with the visibility and generosity harnessed each spring at Ron’s Run, November’s activities give the cause two powerful tentpoles—one celebratory, one educational—both aimed at the same goal: earlier detection, better outcomes and a community that shows up for neighbors when it matters most. For more information visit ronfoleyfoundation.org.
Upcoming Ron Foley Foundation Events:
November 1-30 :
“Battle of the Bars” at Artisan Southport and Artisan West Hartford, a portion of the proceeds go to the Ron Foley Foundation.
We Care Card - Offered by the Hartford Center Association the $50 card offers discounts at participating merchants and restaurants around WH Center from Nov. 6-16.
Candlelight Vigil - Planned for Nov. 20, World Pancreatic Cancer Day, the Ron Foley Foundation hosts a candlelight vigil in Veterans’ Memorial Park in West Hartford Center.
The foundation’s November programming includes community education, social-media campaigns and partner events.