Advocate Spotlight: Suzanne Lindley

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Advocacy Blog
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Suzanne Lindley has lived with metastatic colorectal cancer since 1998. She founded YES! Beat Liver Tumors (an organization for individuals living with metastatic liver tumors) and advocates for Fight Colorectal Cancer.

From Humble Beginnings

I knew nothing about advocacy before meeting Dusty Weaver and Jim Wetekam just over a decade ago. I admired Dusty (who is also a colorectal cancer survivor) from afar for his efforts on Capitol Hill and his work at Fight Colorectal Cancer.
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Fight Colorectal Cancer advocate, Suzanne Lindley
At the time I could not imagine my voice and story making a difference. Dusty and Jim, however, urged me to share my story. They taught me that EVERY voice matters and that it takes only one person to begin the amazing task of progress.
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Suzanne with U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison
A grateful fan of Nancy Roach, I quickly fell in love with Fight Colorectal Cancer. After hiding in the restroom during my first advocacy training I timidly shared my diagnosis of stage IV colorectal cancer with Representative Jeb Hensarling. I expressed the need for continued funding for cancer research during my meeting. I knew my words touched him as he shared his work with cancer and his own efforts to make a difference. I wanted to do more.

Finding My Advocacy Voice

Through the years, I've climbed the steps of Capitol Hill and walked the long halls of Congress countless times, testified before Congress and worked tirelessly and passionately to further the efforts of Fight Colorectal Cancer. I've worked to close cancer-related gaps so my children and their children never face a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
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Suzanne Lindley with Congressman Jeb Hensarling.
My voice has made a difference. Rep. Hensarling recognized my efforts in the Congressional Record and supports other cancer-related issues, too. Sens. Cornyn and Hutchison became proactive in their stance with cancer and research.
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Suzanne speaking at Call-on Congress
A monumental moment in advocacy for me occurred when I met with Sen. Kennedy while he and Sen. Hutchison introduced the Kennedy-Hutchison War on Cancer. They mentioned me during the introduction and I was there to see the bill introduced - evidence that my story made an impact. Though I have yet to meet Sen. Cruz, it is something I hope to do this year during Call-on Congress.

Advocating from Home

In becoming an advocate, I learned I can advocate both on the Hill and from home.
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Suzanne meeting with Congressman Jeb Hensarling during the August Recess Challenge.
The meetings in my local district during Congressional recesses are just as important as my visits to Capitol Hill. Talking with Congressional members and their staff in my hometown is a great way to remind them of the issues at hand and how they impact our community. I provide not only a voice, but a face. Then I follow up. Follow up is the reminder that colorectal cancer screening and research is imperative!

We're Being Heard

My efforts, and the efforts of the other advocates have made a huge difference in colorectal cancer screening and awareness.
Suzanne with U.S. Senator John Cornyn
The word "colonoscopy," which was once whispered in the shadows of a dark room, is now a more familiar term and people know the procedure can save lives. The month of March is dedicated to Colorectal Cancer Awareness. Screening is more accessible and treatments have increased and improved. We are truly a community - one million strong - and we're growing stronger every day!

Join Us!

Have you been impacted by colorectal cancer? Join us! Do you want to change policy? Each of us can advocate. It takes only your story and the passion to create change.

Sometimes the results are subtle and other times they are life changing. I know, without a doubt, I am alive today because of colorectal cancer research. Join Fight CRC and help bring an end to colorectal cancer. It’s easy!

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