Melissa Gilbert's Modern Prairie supports PanCAN and patients

Melissa Gilbert is wrapped in Modern Prairie x PanCAN's wavy blanket

She's best known for her role as “Half Pint” on Little House on the Prairie, but Melissa Gilbert's commitment to improving the lives of everyone affected by pancreatic cancer is no small thing.

And now, just in time for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in November, Modern Prairie – the lifestyle brand owned by Melissa and her business partner Nicole Haase – is supporting PanCAN with the launch of a specially curated collection: Modern Prairie x PanCAN. Proceeds* from the collection benefit PanCAN and fund critical resources, services and research that advance progress on this disease.

In 1991, Melissa lost her mentor, acting partner, favorite director, father figure, friend and boss, Michael Landon, to pancreatic cancer. And in 2009, Melissa lost her dear friend Patrick Swayze, whom she had known since the early 80s.

More than 30 years later, she is more committed than ever to honoring Michael's legacy and Patrick's memory, educating her community and fighting for the future.

“Michael Landon was one of the biggest influences on my life. His death left an enormous void in the lives of those of us who knew him personally, but also those who simply admired his work. And years later, when I found out Patrick was diagnosed, I was very scared for him,” Gilbert said.

“Of course, this is not a fight I can take on alone, and that is why I am so grateful to PanCAN. I can harness my anger and use it to support this extraordinary organization. PanCAN is truly a unique resource for people whose lives have been impacted by pancreatic cancer.”

PanCAN is also grateful for Melissa's support.

“Like so many others, I grew up watching Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbert on Little House on the Prairie, so it is a great honor to be able to work with Melissa, Nicole and their company on this initiative,” said Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA, President and CEO of PanCAN. “We are so grateful to her and for this opportunity to pay tribute to both Michael and Patrick by raising awareness and money to make progress for pancreatic cancer patients.”

From tote bags to cake carriers, there is something for everyone.

The Modern Prairie x PanCAN capsule collection launches today, marking an important milestone: the 50th anniversary of the hit series Little House on the Prairie this fall.

The limited-edition collection features a special “lavender petal” pattern to honor the color of pancreatic cancer awareness, purple. From tote bags to cake carriers, there is something for everyone.

A long-time supporter of pancreatic cancer awareness, Gilbert participated in PanCAN PurpleStride, the ultimate walk to eradicate pancreatic cancer, with her team Prairie Strong in 2022 to raise funds and awareness.

And now, to educate her community about pancreatic cancer, Melissa will host a workshop on her Modern Prairie platform on Thursday, November 14th at 9 a.m. PT/noon ET with Lynn Matrisian, PhD, MBA, Chief Scientific Officer of PanCAN , will talk about the risks and symptoms of the disease and what you should know if you or a loved one is diagnosed. Register here for free.

A big PanCAN thank you to Melissa. We are grateful for their tireless commitment to creating a world where everyone living with pancreatic cancer thrives.

For more information about the special Modern Prairie x PanCAN product collection, visit Modern Prairie.

*PanCAN receives the following amounts from the sale of each item: Shell Cover $25, Roll Up Sewing Kit $10, Tote Bag $9, Hat $8, Cake Carrier $6, Pocket Squares $5.