Pyjamas for PanCan Day
April 24
About Pyjamas for PanCan Day
Pyjamas for PanCan is an annual fundraising day organised by Pancreatic Cancer Action, a UK charity dedicated to improving early diagnosis and survival rates for pancreatic cancer. In 2026, the event falls on Friday 24 April. Workplaces, schools, and community groups across the country are encouraged to swap their usual attire for pyjamas and donate to the cause.
What is Pyjamas for PanCan?
Pyjamas for PanCan is one of the most accessible charity fundraisers of the year. The concept is simple: wear your pyjamas for the day and make a small donation, typically one or two pounds. The funds raised go directly to Pancreatic Cancer Action, which campaigns for earlier diagnosis of pancreatic cancer through research funding, awareness campaigns, and healthcare professional education.
The event has grown steadily since its launch, with thousands of people taking part each year. Schools organise PJ days, offices run bake sales alongside the dress-down day, and community groups use the occasion to start conversations about a disease that too often goes undiagnosed until it is too late.
When is Pyjamas for PanCan Day?
Pyjamas for PanCan Day 2026 takes place on Friday 24 April 2026. However, Pancreatic Cancer Action encourages supporters to take part on any date throughout April if the official day does not suit their schedule. The flexibility means more people can get involved, whether that is a school holding their PJ day before the Easter break or a workplace choosing a quieter week.
Why Pyjamas for PanCan Matters
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. In the UK, 26 people die from the disease every single day, which is more than one person every hour. The five-year survival rate remains below 7%, making it the lowest of all common cancers. These figures have barely improved in decades, largely because pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect early. By the time most patients receive a diagnosis, the cancer has already spread.
Pancreatic Cancer Action focuses on changing this through earlier diagnosis. The charity funds research into diagnostic tools, trains GPs to recognise the symptoms sooner, and raises public awareness of the warning signs. Every pound raised through Pyjamas for PanCan goes towards this mission.
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer can include persistent stomach or back pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), changes in bowel habits, and new-onset diabetes. Recognising these signs early can make a significant difference to outcomes.
How to Get Involved
- Wear your pyjamas – Ask your workplace, school, or community group to hold a PJ day on 24 April or any date in April. Collect donations of one to two pounds per person.
- Order a fundraising pack – Pancreatic Cancer Action provides a free pack including posters, sponsorship forms, games, awareness leaflets, and a collection box. It also includes hot chocolate sachets and a PJs for PanCan eye mask.
- Set up online fundraising – Create a JustGiving page to collect donations from friends, family, and colleagues who cannot attend in person.
- Book an awareness talk – Pancreatic Cancer Action offers free occupational health talks where a team member explains the charity’s mission and how to spot the early signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer.
- Add extras to your event – Many groups run bake sales, raffles, or coffee mornings alongside their PJ day to boost fundraising totals.
- Share on social media – Post your pyjama photos using the hashtag #PyjamasforPanCan and tag Pancreatic Cancer Action to help spread awareness.
History of Pyjamas for PanCan
Pyjamas for PanCan was created by Pancreatic Cancer Action, a charity registered in England and Wales (charity number 1137689) and Scotland (SC049777). The charity was founded by Ali Stunt, who survived pancreatic cancer herself after being diagnosed early, and has dedicated her work to ensuring others receive the same chance through earlier detection.
The pyjama theme was chosen for its accessibility. Anyone can take part regardless of age, ability, or budget. The low-cost, high-fun nature of the event makes it particularly popular in primary schools and offices, where it often becomes an annual tradition. Over the years, the campaign has raised vital funds that have contributed to Pancreatic Cancer Action’s diagnostic research and GP training programmes.
Noteworthy Facts
- Pancreatic cancer kills 26 people every day in the UK, more than one person every hour.
- The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is below 7%, the lowest of all common cancers.
- Around 10,500 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the UK each year.
- Pancreatic Cancer Action focuses on early diagnosis because patients diagnosed at stage one have significantly better outcomes.
- The charity offers free awareness talks to workplaces and community groups to help people recognise symptoms earlier.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing Pyjamas for PanCan Day with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #PyjamasforPanCan and #PjsforPanCan on social media. The more people who know about pancreatic cancer and its symptoms, the greater the chance of earlier diagnosis.
Related Awareness Days
- Bowel Cancer Awareness Month – A month-long campaign raising awareness of bowel cancer symptoms and screening.
- World Health Day – An annual global health awareness day observed on 7 April.
- National Cancer Control Month – April observance promoting cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Links
Plan your next campaign
Use Awareness Planner to discover events, build content calendars, and stay ahead of key dates.
2026 Health Awareness Calendar
Health and wellbeing awareness days throughout the year. Perfect for clinics, HR teams, and schools.
View Calendar →
