MeLissa Olson of Gaylord is beginning to prepare for Michigan Celebration at the State Capitol. An ACS volunteer for approximately 10 years and a survivor of thyroid cancer for 17 years, MeLissa also lost her mother-in-law to cancer.

"I initially went to Relay For Life events as a survivor," said MeLissa. "I lost my mother-in-law, Elizabeth Brady Olson, and I knew I wanted to make a difference."

One way that MeLissa is able to make a difference is through advocacy. This May, she will be attending her third Celebration at the State Capitol event. She believes the event is empowering and that attending Lobby Day helps make the fight against cancer more urgent to lawmakers.

"I really enjoy taking part in Lobby Day. To me, it’s a chance to be part of something bigger," explained MeLissa.

"I realize that I may never raise the most money as part of Relay For Life. But I can make a difference because I do have a voice. I can let my lawmakers know that in Gaylord there are people there who do care about cancer. They pay attention."

Each year, your American Cancer Society brings together volunteers from across Michigan to learn about the latest legislative issues affecting cancer patients and their families, and encourage state legislators to make cancer a number one priority.

This year, volunteers will be asking Michigan legislators to support a statewide smokefree air law and to fund the Healthy Michigan Fund. Smokefree air is something that MeLissa feels passionately about.

"I lost my father to lung disease, and I’m a Road to Recovery driver. A few years ago, I transported a woman who worked at a bar. As a worker, she didn’t have a choice, she had to work and keep her job. It’s important that we speak up for those hospitality workers," said MeLissa, referring to those who are involuntarily exposed to secondhand smoke.

Celebration at the State Capitol gives MeLissa and other volunteers the opportunity to make their voices heard.

"I send e-mails and I send letters. But once a year, because they see my face, I’m able to have a more personal relationship with my legislators."

Celebration at the State Capitol 2008 is scheduled, rain or shine, for May 13. The deadline for registration is May 3. This is your chance to fight back through advocacy by speaking with your lawmaker about important cancer-related issues.

We hope to see you there! Visit www.acsgld.org/micelebration to register today.

Pictured: Volunteers at Michigan Celebration at the State Capitol