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National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation
Abigail (“Abby”) Schwaede is a child neurologist at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago and a dedicated Brand Ambassador for the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation. Inspired by her late mother, Cynthia Sage, Abby combines medical expertise, compassionate care, and animal-assisted therapy to support individuals and families affected by pancreatic cancer.
Together with her Samoyed, Plato, a certified therapy dog through the Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy program, Abby volunteers throughout the community to bring comfort, companionship, and moments of joy to those facing difficult circumstances.
Abby earned her undergraduate and medical degrees from Rutgers University. She then completed fellowship training in pediatric neuromuscular disorders at Northwestern University.
In March 2025, Abby’s mother, Cynthia Sage, passed away after an eight-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Abby experienced firsthand the importance of compassion, support, and meaningful connection for patients and their loved ones.
Inspired by her mother’s strength and by the impact of therapy dog work, Abby is committed to honoring her legacy by raising awareness and bringing comfort to those affected by pancreatic cancer.
Plato is a certified therapy dog with Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy. Together, Abby and Plato visit hospitals, community events, and organizations to provide comfort, reduce stress, and bring moments of joy to patients, families, and caregivers.
As a Brand Ambassador for the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, Abby envisions initiatives such as “Purple for Plato,” uniting two causes that share the same color: pancreatic cancer awareness and Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy. Through storytelling, community outreach, fundraising, and visits with Plato, she hopes to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer, provide comfort and encouragement to patients and caregivers, and demonstrate how small acts of kindness—sometimes delivered on four paws—can make a lasting difference.
Join ambassadors across the country raising awareness, supporting patients and families, and helping NPCF reach the people who need us most.
Your Voice. Your Story. Our Mission.
