Martha Madison & Eric Martsolf Pay Tribute to Drake Hogestyn: Inside Their Honoring Tribute

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‘Days of our Lives’ Stars Unite for PanCAN PurpleStride, Honoring Drake Hogestyn’s Legacy

By Archyde News Team | Published March 24, 2025

The world of daytime television mourned the loss of Drake Hogestyn, known to millions as John Black on “Days of Our Lives,” last September after his battle with pancreatic cancer. Now, his on-screen family is stepping up to honor his memory and fight for a future free from this devastating disease.

‘Hogey’s Home Runners’ Lead the Charge

Martha Madison, who plays Belle, and Eric Martsolf, known as Brady on “Days of Our Lives,” have joined forces to co-chair “Hogey’s Home Runners,” a team participating in the PanCAN purplestride walk. This nationwide event, taking place on April 26, 2025, brings together communities across the U.S.to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research and patient support.

Madison and Martsolf initially announced their collaboration via Instagram, inviting fans to join them in Santa monica to walk and support a cause that has become deeply personal. Their heartfelt message resonated with many, highlighting their commitment “to walking toward a future without Pancreatic Cancer… and we want you to come along! So, consider this your personal invitation to join our team and walk with us (and many other familiar faces) on Saturday, April 26th at the Santa Monica Pier.”

Due to a scheduling conflict, Martsolf will be unable to attend the Santa Monica walk physically.As he shared lightheartedly on Alan Locher’s Locher Room podcast, he was so eager to commit to the cause that he overlooked a pre-existing engagement. Though, Dan Feuerriegel, who portrays EJ on the show, will join Madison on April 26th to walk in his place, ensuring the team has strong portrayal.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) estimates that over 64,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2023 alone. This aggressive disease often presents with vague symptoms, leading to late diagnoses and lower survival rates.Raising awareness and funding research are crucial to improving outcomes for patients and their families.

Star-Studded Support for a Vital Cause

The “Hogey’s Home Runners” team has garnered important support from other members of the “days of Our Lives” cast and the wider entertainment community. Tina Huang (Melinda), Stephen Nichols (Steve), and Kennedy Garcia (Felicity) have all committed to walking with the team, demonstrating the widespread impact of Hogestyn’s legacy.

PanCAN has also announced that Lisa Swayze, widow of Patrick Swayze, who also succumbed to pancreatic cancer, will be participating. Entertainment icon Eric Idle, known for his work with Monty Python, and a contingent from “star trek,” including Jonathan Frakes, Armin shimerman, Kitty Swink, and John Billingsley, further amplify the event’s reach and significance. Their involvement highlights the far-reaching effects of pancreatic cancer and the importance of collective action.

Beyond the Walk: How You Can Make a difference

The “Hogey’s Home Runners” team has set an ambitious fundraising goal of $50,000. According to Madison, “Any donation, big or small, is so appreciated and will be used to fund continued research, advocacy and patient services for those currently battling pancreatic cancer.” Donations can be made through a link in her Instagram bio or directly on the PanCAN website. As of today,the team is nearly halfway to reaching its goal,with just over a month remaining to raise additional funds.

For those unable to contribute financially, ther are numerous other ways to support the cause. Sharing details about PanCAN and PurpleStride on social media helps raise awareness and encourages others to get involved. PanCAN’s PurpleStride events are being held in roughly 60 communities across the U.S.on April 26, allowing individuals nationwide to participate and show their support.

Early detection remains a significant challenge in the fight against pancreatic cancer. While screening is not currently recommended for the general population, individuals with a family history of the disease or certain genetic mutations may benefit from genetic counseling and screening. Tools like PanCAN’s Risk Assessment Test can definitely help individuals determine if they are at increased risk.

pancan offers resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Their Patient Central program provides personalized support and information, while their research grants fund innovative projects aimed at improving early detection, treatment, and survivorship.

The Future of Pancreatic Cancer Research

Despite advancements in cancer treatment, pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest forms of the disease. However, ongoing research offers hope for the future. Scientists are exploring new therapies, including targeted drugs and immunotherapies, that show promise in improving patient outcomes.additionally, research into early detection methods, such as liquid biopsies, aims to identify the disease at its earliest stages when treatment is most effective.

As Martsolf emphasized

What personal actions can readers take to support those fighting pancreatic cancer?

Interview: Martha Madison on Honoring Drake Hogestyn and Supporting PanCAN PurpleStride

By Archyde News Team | Published March 24,2025

We’re honored to have Martha Madison,known for her role as Belle on “Days of Our Lives,” with us today.Martha, thank you for joining Archyde News. Your work to honor Drake Hogestyn through the PanCAN PurpleStride event is truly inspiring.

The Impact of Drake Hogestyn’s Legacy

Archyde News: Martha, Drake Hogestyn’s passing was a notable loss for the “Days of Our Lives” family and its fans. can you share some of the motivations behind your involvement in PanCAN purplestride and how it connects to honoring Drake’s memory?

Martha Madison: absolutely. Drake, whom we all endearingly called “Hogey,” was a true light. His battle with pancreatic cancer deeply affected us all. When we learned about PanCAN PurpleStride, it felt like a natural step to take, to channel our grief into something positive. It’s a way to honor his legacy by fighting the disease that took him too soon.

Archyde News: It must be a powerful experience to use that grief to inspire others. Can you describe the response you have received sence announcing the “Hogey’s Home Runners” team?

Martha Madison: The response has been overwhelming,and honestly,quite stunning. We’ve had so many fans and colleagues reach out to offer support; it’s been a testament to Drake’s impact and the community we share.Knowing the importance of the cause has really united us. We’re incredibly grateful and moved by the outpouring of love and support.

Archyde News: You mentioned that Eric Martsolf will be unable to attend. Dan Feuerriegel will be walking in his place at the Santa Monica event. How important is this solidarity within the “Days of Our Lives” cast?

Martha Madison: Eric’s support has been fantastic! Though he can’t make it to Santa Monica, he’s been a huge part of this from the start. Having Dan step in demonstrates that solidarity we have. It’s crucial to stand side-by-side during times like these. The cast is very supportive and committed to this cause.

Raising Awareness and Funds

Archyde news: Your team, “Hogey’s Home Runners,” has set an enterprising fundraising goal. Can you tell us more about how peopel can contribute and what impact their donations have?

Martha Madison: Yes, our goal is $50,000, and we’re almost halfway there! Donations, no matter the size, make a significant difference. All funds go directly to PanCAN’s vital work: funding research, providing patient services, and advocating for those battling pancreatic cancer. people can donate through a link in my Instagram bio or directly on the PanCAN website.

Archyde News: For those who may not be in a position to donate financially,what are other ways people can get involved to support the effort?

Martha Madison: Awareness is key! Sharing information about PanCAN and PurpleStride on social media is an easy way to help.You can also register and walk in any of the PurpleStride events happening across the country on April 26th.Every bit of support helps.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Pancreatic cancer Research

Archyde News: Early detection seems to be a key challenge.What resources does PanCAN offer for those potentially at increased risk, perhaps due to family history?

Martha Madison: PanCAN has astounding resources. They offer things like a Risk Assessment Test to assess individual risk based on family history and other factors, resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. They are also funding new research focused on early detection. they also have a really great Patient Central program that provides personalized support and information. It’s all incredibly valuable.

Archyde News: Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers. Despite the challenges, are there reasons to be hopeful regarding research and treatment?

Martha Madison: Absolutely. There are so many exciting developments in research, including new therapies like targeted drugs and immunotherapies. Research into early detection is also promising, with ideas like liquid biopsies. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, but these advancements fill us with hope for the future.

Archyde News: Martha, thank you so much for your time and for your passionate advocacy. Before we conclude, is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Martha Madison: I would just like to say that anyone touched by cancer understands the urgent need for a cure. Consider what causes you care about and what actions you can take to help. Together, we can make a difference in finding a cure for pancreatic cancer so other families don’t have to experience such a loss.

Archyde News: Thank you, Martha. Your words are truly inspiring. For our readers,what personal actions can you take to support those fighting pancreatic cancer? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.