Days of Our Lives star Stephen Nichols is set to honor his late co-star and close friend Drake Hogestyn at this year’s PanCAN PurpleStride Los Angeles. The event will take place on April 25 at the Santa Monica Pier, bringing together fans, cast members, and supporters for one of the largest pancreatic cancer fundraisers in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Nichols is leading a heartfelt tribute to Drake Hogestyn at a major pancreatic cancer fundraiser in Los Angeles.
- Hogey’s Home Runners aim to raise $75,000 this year after a powerful showing from the Days of Our Lives cast and fans, at the annual PanCAN PurpleStride event
- Nichols shares emotional memories of Hogestyn’s legacy, from his devotion to fans to the lasting impact he left on and off screen.
PanCAN PurpleStride Los Angeles
Stephen Nichols (Steve) will be honoring long-time co-star and friend Drake Hogestyn (John) at this year’s PanCAN (Pancreatic Cancer Action Network) PurpleStride LA event. The event will take place on April 25th at the Santa Monica Pier in California, and Nichols is serving as the captain of Hogey’s Home Runners. “Hogey was Drake’s nickname from his baseball days,” Nichols shared. The event is the largest pancreatic cancer fundraiser, which is the type of cancer Hogestyn died from in 2024.
The cause is deeply personal. Hogestyn passed away in 2024 from pancreatic cancer, a loss that continues to resonate across the Days community. “Drake passed away from this horrible disease… it was a shock to all of us,” Nichols said. “He was a person who loved life like
Continuing The Tradition
This marks the second year the DAYS cast has participated in the PurpleStride walk. Last year, Martha Madison led the effort as team captain, raising an impressive $60,000.
“This year our goal is $75,000, and we’re on our way to reaching that,” Nichols said.
Despite heavy rain during last year’s event, the turnout was overwhelming.
“It was pouring rain the entire time, and people still showed up,” Nichols recalled. “It was very uplifting and inspiring.”
The emotional impact was especially felt by Hogestyn’s family. Nichols shared that one of Drake’s daughters reflected on the weather in a deeply moving way, calling it “tears of joy” for what the event represented.
Fans also played a major role in honoring Hogestyn’s legacy.
“The event was very sweet because the fans all had stories about Drake,” Nichols said. “He was beloved by the fans and by everyone who ever met him.
Hogestyn’s Legacy of Kindness and Dedication
Hogestyn’s connection with fans remains one of his most enduring legacies. “When Drake signed autographs, he was always the last person at the table,” Nichols shared. “He would not leave until every last person was attended to.”
That same dedication carried into his work and personal relationships. Nichols, who also lost his father-in-law to pancreatic cancer, has found even deeper meaning in participating in the event.
Remembering Drake Hogestyn On and Off Screen
Nichols and Hogestyn’s bond grew especially strong in recent years while working closely together on the Black Patch Agency storyline. “We became very close and talked about our families, our past, our careers,” Nichols said. “We would get together to run dialogue for the day.”
After Hogestyn’s passing, Nichols made a heartfelt request to preserve his friend’s presence at the studio. “I asked that they preserve that dressing room for him… and they have not put anyone in there,” he revealed. “His name placard is still there. I walk past every morning… and I think of him every day.”
Moving Forward While Honoring the Past
Nichols is now sharing scenes with Eric Martsolf (Brady), as their characters continue the Black Patch Agency legacy. “When they told me Eric was going to be my new partner, I thought—how perfect… father and son,” Nichols said.
The connection is rooted in mutual respect for Hogestyn’s influence. “He and I have really hit it off… because we both have such respect for Drake and for his work ethic,” Nichols added. “Everyone was always inspired by him because of his energy and his commitment.”
As the DAYS family gathers once again for PurpleStride, Hogestyn’s spirit continues to inspire both the cast and fans—turning grief into purpose and remembrance into action.
To donate to Hogey’s Home Runners, visit this link.
