In this issue
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Q. & A. with award-winning volunteer Arletha Dabney

Thousands fight back through CPS-3 in the Great Lakes

Q. & A. with dynamic volunteer Michele Belson

Meet your researcher: Dr. Jinping Xu

Cancer survivor resources

It’s time to reform our health care system

Father's day quiz: Early detection and prevention
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VOICES photo and video contest!

VOICES in the kitchen

Q. & A. with award-winning volunteer Arletha Dabney
Heavily involved in many ACS programs, Arletha received the Bloomington, Indiana, Be More Knowledgable Award for her passion and dedication to the American Cancer Society's Body and Soul program that promotes cancer education and prevention in the African American churches through healthy living and eating.
 
When did you get involved with ACS/how did you hear about ACS?
It has been about 13 years. My friend Dana Carter was battling with cancer and she invited me to a Relay For Life. Little did I know that the next year I would be diagnosed with breast cancer, and the year after that Dana lost her battle.
 
Why do you volunteer?
I do it because I promised God that if I was to live I would do all that I could do to make people more aware and be more informed about cancer and what ACS can offer. I do it for Dana and all the others that have won or lost their battle. We all need to be encouraged as we go through everyday battles…and when it’s a health issue, we need even more [encouragement].
 
You are involved in Relay, Daffodil Days, Reach to Recovery, and Body & Soul. How does being a volunteer at this capacity impact you and others positively?
Because of my involvement I have received great rewards through information, knowledge, better health, and some awesome friendships with staff at ACS and with other survivors and caregivers. I am always available to lend a listening ear or just to give a hug.
 
You were just recognized for your volunteerism efforts at the “Be More” awards. How did this make you feel?
It was such an honor for me. I tell people all the time that I do what I do just to make a difference. I was so humbled by the experience and truly nervous. I usually don’t have trouble speaking but I was tongue-tied.
 
What has been your most memorable experience being an ACS volunteer?
That is really hard. I can say at a Relay For Life several years ago I was presented with a gold rose from another cancer survivor that I had become friends with that made my night. That was the best Relay.
 
Tell us your story in one sentence
I was diagnosed in 1998, thought it was a death sentence and I am still HERE. Praise the Lord.
 
How has being a survivor changed your perspective on life?
I try to live each day with a more positive attitude. I don’t let small thing bother me anymore and I can say I really try to enjoy life.
 
How has being an ACS volunteer fulfilled you?
Meeting new people and going to different workshops and events has been a fulfilling experience for me. I used to be shy and now I can talk in front of so many different types of groups! Just ask me about ACS and my personal experience with cancer…sharing is the best part.
 
What inspires you?
My children and grandchildren. I want them to grow up in a world where there is a cure, especially for my grandchildren.
 
Anything else you would like to say/share?
I never thought that almost 11 years ago I would have the opportunity to do what I do for ACS. I didn’t even think that I wanted to do what I do now. I love ACS! It has been a Godsend for me with all the information, opportunities, different events, and the best part…the friendships.

This year I wasn’t going to be able to go to Lobby Day and I really missed it [but] the fact that cigarette tax has gone up is encouraging. I know several people that smoke, and maybe they will get too expensive and they will quit. One step at a time, one day at a time, and I pray that soon [there will be] no more cancer! ACS keep on doing what you do. I am proud to be a volunteer for you.

We are proud and fortunate here at the American Cancer Society to have volunteers like Arletha Dabney. For more information on the Body and Soul program, visit http://www.bodyandsoul.nih.gov/.

Pictured (L to R): Renee' Rose, Pastor Bruce R. Rose, Dr. Carolyn Calloway-Thomas, Arletha Dabney, Debra Vance, down front Martha Chamberlain.