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advocacy Join us in Washington DC as a Celebration on the Hill supporter Celebration on the Hill 2006, sponsored by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, is our major advocacy event of the year. Four thousand ambassadors comprised of survivors, caregivers, researchers, health care professionals, community leaders, and volunteers from around the nation have been chosen to go and speak with their legislators about cancer issues in Washington DC on September 19-20. Now you can also sign up to join us as a supporter and make your voice heard!  Earlier this year, perspective ambassadors throughout Indiana and Michigan applied and 196 volunteers were selected to represent everyone in their hometowns, but we want as many people as possible to join us in Washington DC for this historic event. Supporters will be able to participate as if they are ambassadors, but are responsible for their own expenses. Our main goal is to send the message to our representatives that we care about fighting cancer and we want them to make it a priority in public policy. Celebration on the Hill also includes a nationwide Relay For Life event, complete with a track around the reflecting pool, luminaria, and survivorship ceremonies to celebrate life.
Our first Celebration on the Hill event in 2002 led to more funding for cancer research and programs, and displayed to the nation the power of our grassroots advocacy volunteers. This year, we're going back because there is more much more to do, such as talking to legislators about federal action on cancer patients' right to privacy, insurance coverage, employment, access to care, and funds designated for research. Watch a short promotional video about this year's event here. Judy Foster and Tracy Storch (shown above), a mother-daughter team from Osceola County, Michigan, are both attending Celebration on the Hill as supporters. They booked their hotel and air reservations for the event before even registering. Judy's mom (Tracy's grandmother) died of cancer. "To know anyone who has cancer-you want to eradicate it," says Tracy. 
Bill Kiley, from Highland Township, Michigan, is also going to Celebration on the Hill as a supporter with his wife, Judy (shown with Bill at left), who is going as an ambassador. "I'm honored to be associated with it along with my wife," says Bill. Judy was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1990. She has been the captain of her Relay For Life team and served on the planning committee. Bill has always been very supportive of Judy's involvement with the Society. "He just has gone above and beyond anything I expected," she says.
As September gets closer, the anticipation for Celebration on the Hill 2006 is building. "I think it's going to be awesome," says Bill. To register or learn more, log on to www.celebrationonthehill.org. We hope to see you in Washington DC! Other features in VOICES this month community focus: variety of Society programs offer support in multiple ways |
survivorship and patient services: youth can still sign up for this year's Young Adult Retreat |
research: Society funds innovative cancer researchers |
education: organizations partner with the Society to improve workplace wellness |
advocacy: statewide events allow volunteers to speak with legislators about cancer issues |
local area spotlight: Central Indiana Area Service Center staff and volunteers try to help patients traveling for treatment |
opportunities available: visit a Relay For Life event in July |
resource highlight: register today on the Cancer Survivor's Network |
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