Local Woman Lobbies Congress on Behalf of Cancer Victims

WASHINGTON -- The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network is a grassroots arm of the ACS that lobbies for government research and funding for cancer related projects. Recently, the organization sent one representative from each Congressional District to Capitol Hill to help make fighting for a cure a national priority. Representing District 13 was Holmes Beach resident and cancer survivor, Nancy Ambrose.

Ambrose spoke with members of congress and urged them to increase cancer research funding and cancer control programs. Ambrose pointed out that:

• Cancer kills nearly 1,500 people per day in the United States. 
• In America, nearly 1.5 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed and cancer will kill 569,490 of our fellow citizens. 
• In Florida alone, 107,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer and 40,880 Florida residents will not win the battle with this dreaded disease. 

Ambrose with Rep. Gus Bilirakis and other CAN members

For Ambrose the battle is personal and she is desperate to help others survive the deadly disease. She found a kindred spirit in Representative Alan Grayson. ”He was so sincere and cared so much about cancer patients, survivors and others with medical situations,“ said Ambrose.  It mattered not that Ambrose didn't live in Grayson’s district, an impression that went a long way with her.

”What he said and his actions that day are something that touched my life and the lives of all of those that were in the room,“ said Ambrose. ”None of us will ever be the same after that visit and none of us will ever forget it. Rep. Grayson is there to fight for us.“ 

Ambrose said that the trip inspired her to be even more committed to the cause and she urges Manatee County residents to join her by becoming members of the Cancer Action Network. ”How else can you make such a difference and save so many lives for only $10 a year?“ asked Ambrose. Readers interested in becoming a member can contact Nancy to join at 941-799-2181, or email her at nancya@tampabay.rr.com.