My Experience at the 10th Annual Advocacy Day with PanCAN
Ten years ago this month I participated in the first Advocacy Day with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. I am in awe of the overwhelming support for our organization, year after year, and the vast number of advocates who push forward on our shared goal to double the pancreatic cancer survival rate by 2020, and increase medical and research funding from the NIH and NCI.
I remember the first Advocacy Day well. There were approximately 115 volunteers and less than 20 survivors. 10 years later, at the 2017 event, we had 630 volunteers and over 100 survivors! It is incredible that so many devote their valuable time and resources to come to Washington and raise their voices so others will not experience the terrible tragedies we have faced.
I am blessed to be a pancreatic cancer survivor. Meeting with our members of Congress is a powerful experience. Telling our personal stories; reminding them of the critical importance of funding cancer research. Pancreatic cancer is currently the third deadliest cancer, soon to be second with a five-year survival rate of 9%. Unacceptable by any standard.
We MUST urge Congress to act boldly and continue investing in Americans by supporting critical cancer research funding. Find out how you can help: https://www.pancan.org/get-involved/
