At the Night Sky Gala, an unexpected medical emergency in the audience required us to pause the program. We’re deeply grateful the individual has recovered and is well.
Unfortunately, this meant that Lori Barczyk couldn’t finish her speech explaining how she has turned pain into purpose and hope. We invited her to share the rest of her journey here, and we’re honored to share her powerful message with you.
The Barczyk Family Legacy: LegaSea Aquarium
“After losing Brian in January 2024, I poured myself into the LegaSea Aquarium project; his dream; our legacy. It was a massive undertaking, and I worked tirelessly for 16 months, until April 14, 2025, when we opened the doors for our soft-open. I’m proud to say on October 4, 2025, we held our Grand Opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.
This Grand Opening marked an extraordinary milestone; a moment we had dreamed of for years. The ribbon cutting at LegaSea Aquarium was not just the opening of a new place; it was completing the toughest chapter of my life. One that challenged me to the core. The journey to this moment has been incredibly emotional, and one I couldn’t have made without the support of so many. But even with all the joy and relief, there was one thing missing…my husband and best friend.
Brian faced pancreatic cancer with courage, grace and an unbreakable spirit. Even in his final days, he was still dreaming, still thinking about others and still wondering how he could make a difference. Brian should not be gone. No one should have to lose their spouse, parent, child or friend to this devastating disease.
And yet, it’s happening every single day because pancreatic cancer is one of the most underfunded forms of cancer. That’s why funding for research matters; that’s why Sky Foundation matters. This is about changing the story for every person who will be diagnosed tomorrow, next month, next year. It’s about funding the research that leads to earlier detection, better treatments, and longer lives.
My ask of you now is the same it would have been the night of the Gala…to give with your whole heart. Give like lives depend on it, because they do. Be bold. Be generous. Be part of the movement that ends pancreatic cancer for good. Thank you.”
Lori Barczyk
Night Sky Gala 2025