Ten years after the passing of Alan Rickman, his widow Rima Horton is dedicating her efforts to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research. In a heartfelt segment on BBC Breakfast, Horton took the opportunity to honor the late actor, who succumbed to the disease in 2016 at the age of 69. During the interview, she shared her thoughts on Rickman’s untimely death, emphasizing the unfulfilled potential he had due to the diagnosis.
“He had so much more to give. There were so many more things he could have done,” Horton reflected. She revealed that after being diagnosed, Rickman lived for an additional six months with the help of chemotherapy, though it ultimately could not cure him. Horton highlighted the critical issue surrounding pancreatic cancer, stating, “The biggest problem is that by the time that people find out they’ve got it, it’s too late. The symptoms are so difficult to work out.” To combat this, she is helping to raise funds specifically for a breathalyzer test aimed at enabling earlier diagnosis.
In a nod to Rickman’s enduring legacy, Pancreatic Cancer UK has launched a fundraising campaign where fans are invited to donate at least £5 for a chance to win a unique prize. This includes a complete set of all seven Harry Potter books, each signed by twelve notable cast members from the beloved film series. The initiative not only serves to honor Rickman’s unforgettable role as Professor Snape but also aims to change the future for countless individuals affected by pancreatic cancer.
Many in the entertainment industry continue to mourn Rickman’s absence. His former co-star Daniel Radcliffe described him as “undoubtedly one of the greatest actors I will ever work with,” sharing how impactful their collaboration was during his formative years in acting. Emma Thompson, another co-star of Rickman, praised him as the “ultimate ally,” expressing deep appreciation for his humor, intelligence, wisdom, and kindness.
The ongoing efforts to raise funds and awareness in Rickman’s name serve as a poignant reminder of his legacy and the importance of addressing pancreatic cancer, a disease that often goes undetected until it is too late. Through these initiatives, there is hope for advancements in early detection methods that could save lives.