I recently had the opportunity to travel to California and attend the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Conference as part of their Scientist < -> Survivor Program. AACR is the oldest and largest scientific organization in the world focused on every aspect of high-quality, innovative cancer research Through the program, survivor and patient advocates are able to develop stronger backgrounds in cancer research and related issues. I applied and was accepted into the program to represent C3.

This trip would prove not only to be informative, but would also give me the opportunity to meet and discuss with fellow participants what new and exciting innovations are being developed now and for the future in regards to cancer research and prevention.

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We were pleased to hear from C3 Advocate Anita Mitchell that Washington State Legislature passed HR 1337, An ACT Relating to Insurance Coverage for Colorectal Cancer Early Detection.

HR 1337 will require insurance coverage for colorectal cancer screening for health plans issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2008. Insurance coverage will be provided for individuals who are at least 50 years of age or for those individuals who are considered to be at high risk for colorectal cancer.

We would like to thank the Washington State Legislature and Governor Gregoire for making strides in the right direction to combat this horrible disease.

Click here to read a copy of this bill.

Click here to see where your State ranks in the fight against colorectal cancer.

Governor Gregoire, C3 Advocate Anita Mitchell and her children at the bill signing.

On Wednesday, April 11, 2007 the United States Senate voted on The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007 (S. 5). This legislation will provide federal funding for research involving human embryonic stem cells. S. 5 passed with a 63 to 34 vote, with three Senators not voting.

Research on human embryonic stem cells has great potential for a person living with neurological, degenerative and genetic diseases, but it’s the recent findings on cancer that make us at C3 the most hopeful.

Scientists have recently learned that the mechanisms that control cell division and differentiation in embryonic stem cells are likely to also regulate cancer stem cells, which means that cancer patients stand to benefit greatly from progress in embryonic stem cell research.

S. 5 will now make its way to the desk of The President. President Bush has vowed to veto the legislation for the SECOND TIME. To override the President’s veto S. 5 needed 67 votes.

Though not a victory this vote shows potential for future legislation that will open up doors in research for cures of such cancers as colorectal.

The fight is not over! To get involved sign up to be a One Minute Advocate today. It is up to us to bring the message to our elected officials that researchers must have all possible avenues open to them in which to search for a cure for cancer.

Colorectal Cancer Prevention Fund Part of California Tax Check-Off Program

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared April 5 as the first annual Checkoff California Day. Checkoff California is a unique collaboration of 12 funds representing a wide range of causes that have come together to raise awareness and giving through California’s voluntary tax check-off program that appears on the state’s tax form.

One of the 12 funds is the California Colorectal Cancer Prevention Fund (CCCP Fund). Money from this fund goes towards financing research, prevention, and educational programs in the community targeting individuals and families. Funds also assist in providing early screening for the detection of colon and rectal cancer.

Click here for more information about California’s Tax Check-off Program.

Click here for a message from Gov. Schwarzenegger about Checkoff California Day.

Click here for a press release about the bill which established the CCCP Fund.

New Hampshire Considers Funding Colorectal Cancer Detection and Screening Programs

The New Hampshire General Court (the state legislature) is considering a bill (SB 213) which would establish a comprehensive cancer plan fund as well as a board to oversee the fund. The bill proposes to appropriate over $4 million for the fiscal years 2008 to 2011 towards a variety of cancer-related programs. Early detection and screening programs for colorectal cancer would receive $710,000.

A comprehensive cancer plan oversight board would be established to oversee the Department of Health and Human Services’ allocation of moneys from the fund. The bill requires two seats be filled by members of the public who are cancer survivors appointed by the American Cancer Society. This is an opportunity for colon and rectal cancer survivors to get a seat at the table.

The bill is scheduled for a Senate floor vote on April 12. There is no House action as of this writing. Go here to check the current status of the bill. If you are a resident of New Hampshire contact your state Senator and Representative and urge them to vote for SB 213.

Editor’s note: After a diagnosis of Stage III rectal cancer in 2000, Deborah Kanter embarked on major life changes including earning a Masters Degree in Holistic Health Studies, and becoming active with C3. Last month she participated in her first Call-on Congress. During this advocacy experience she discovered some surprising connections with her Congressman and his staff.

“I’m from Paterson; I can handle anything,” Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 8th) informed the crowd of mostly seasoned politicos and health advocates at a March 21 question and answer breakfast. “I’m from Paterson; I can handle anything, including colorectal cancer,” I informed Pascrell, as I introduced myself. I followed with a 30 second summary of key funding and screening points. I trust he will remember; we are Paterson people–Great Falls, textiles, good bagels; that New Jersey toughness, that New Jersey heart.

As I surveyed the room prior to meeting Rep. Pascrell and trading advocacy concerns with others attending, I wondered if I would find my way among this group of seasoned politicos and advocates. This was my premier C3: Colorectal Cancer Coalition advocacy stint. Would I be heard among this group of well-versed advocates? Yes! I relied on knowledge, passion and commitment to this life important cause. How glad I was that Joe Arite, C3 Policy and Grassroots Manager, also attended this breakfast!

Prior to Rep. Pascrell’s arrival, I spoke with his assistant, Charla Penn-McManus, who listened and responded intently. Upon learning that I was from Montclair, she said, “You should meet our Chief of Staff who is also from Montclair.” Later, the Chief of Staff, Benjamin Rich, walked in. My “second favorite moment,” then intensified. Benjamin and my son used to tuba jam years ago when they were both in high school!

No, I did not remind Benjamin Rich about youthful tuba days; however, a new connection was forged. I did remind him about the need for increased funding for the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute and the boost to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We compared the cost of a colonoscopy to a chemotherapy session. Our conversation made sense. He listened, I listened to his summary of Rep. Pascrell’s health efforts and added that if I need anything, to email or call. I will.

This experience solidified my commitment to advocacy. I found so many connections in one room and a new favorite moment to join the rest during this most exciting, energizing Call-on Congress. These moments will evolve into hours; I am ready for more!