603 Gives Back
Who Are We?
603 Gives Back is a future nonprofit born from heartbreak, built on hope. Our mission is to support those left behind after the loss of a loved one to pancreatic cancer—a brutal, fast-moving disease that often gives families just days to process a life-changing diagnosis. While many organizations focus on patients currently battling the disease, 603 Gives Back stands out by focusing on the ones left in the silence after. The families. The friends. The ones still here trying to make sense of what happened. We’re here to give them a space to grieve, to heal, and to honor those they’ve lost. We’re aiming to be fully up and running by the end of 2025, and until then, we’ll keep showing up in every way we can.
We believe no one should suffer alone, especially not after something so devastating. And we fight every day for a future where this cancer doesn’t exist. But until that day comes, we’re here—loud, purple, and proud.
The Story
Why Do We Exist?
This all started with one story.
In March 2023, our CEO, Taylor Renee, got the kind of news no 21-year-old should ever hear—her mom, Lenore O’Hanlon, was diagnosed with what was most likely Stage 3 pancreatic cancer. Lenore, strong as ever, was already ironically working at Novocure, a company known for cutting-edge cancer treatment technology. She always said she believed there was a reason she worked there—and now it was clear why. That connection helped get her into clinical trials that were incredibly hard to access. And because of that, Lenore was able to fight a rare, powerful battle for 18 months—a timeline unheard of in the pancreatic cancer world.
While Lenore’s body grew weaker, Taylor stayed strong—for her mom, for her family, and for what would come next. She wasn’t just fighting the disease. She was finding meaning, making a plan, and laying the groundwork for something bigger than the pain. That “something” became 603 Gives Back.
Just a week after Taylor turned 23, Lenore passed in August 2024. But her spirit hasn’t gone anywhere. She’s still here—guiding, inspiring, and reminding us why this mission matters.
Then born, was The Purple Hope 5K.
The Purple Hope 5K
Why Do We Exist?
The Purple Hope 5K was born in the middle of chaos and grief. Taylor pulled it together in just two and a half months, while her mom was still fighting. It was meant to honor Lenore, and all the other warriors we’ve lost to this disease—and it did exactly that.
In its first year alone, the Purple Hope 5K raised $30,000 for PANCAN, with over 20 local sponsors, 300 racers, and 100 volunteers. It became a day where grief turned into purpose and a whole community came together to show what love looks like. Attendees included the CEO of Novocure, NH State Senators, a letter of attendance from the Governor, a local dog adoption agency (yes—it was dog-friendly), and hundreds more who just wanted to help.
Now, it’s annual. And this year, it’s going down on October 4, 2025.
We’ll be there—purple gear on, and hearts wide open. We hope you will be too.
Check Out The First Annual Purple Hope 5K
October 6, 2024
Nottingham, NH
In Loving Memory of Lenore J. O'Hanlon
December 15, 1972 - August 16, 2024
Lenore O’Hanlon was the definition of strength, beauty, and brilliance. A woman with a sharp mind, a kind soul, and a fierce heart, she lived her life with grace—even when handed one of the most unfair battles anyone could face: pancreatic cancer.
She is deeply missed by her family, friends, and everyone lucky enough to know her. Whether she was whipping up something incredible in the kitchen, getting lost in a good book, or treating herself on a shopping trip—Lenore lived fully and loved deeply.
Her presence will never fade, and her story continues to inspire everything we do.
Click below to learn more about Lenore’s journey and the legacy she leaves behind.
Check Out More From 2024's Event Below
Future Sponsors:
Our mission isn’t just a passion project—it’s personal. And it’s growing. If you're a brand, business, or individual looking to make a real impact, we'd love to have you on board. When you sponsor one of our events, you're not just throwing your name on a banner. You’re standing with families who’ve been through hell, helping fund real change, and becoming part of something bigger.
We’re always looking to partner with sponsors who share our grit, drive, and heart. Whether it's the annual Purple Hope 5K or future community outreach through 603 Gives Back, your support helps us go further, do more, and honor more lives.
Interested in joining as a sponsor? Fill out the form below—we’ll take it from there.