Cancer patients rally legislators virtually

The unpredictable and dynamic nature of COVID-19 is no match for the steadfast commitment of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s volunteers.

Because the virus and the elevated risk for those with compromised immune systems became a roadblock for the annual Cancer Action Day, cancer patients, survivors and caregivers from across the state traveled virtually to the state capitol yesterday to meet with Ohio’s lawmakers about the need to properly fund the state’s Tobacco Use Cessation and Prevention Program and protect youth from indoor tanning.

“Cancer hasn’t stopped, so neither will we. As a cancer survivor, I let my lawmakers know if we’re going to eliminate cancer as a major health problem in Ohio, this goal must be top of mind for our legislature,” said Julie Turner, ACS CAN Ohio state lead ambassador. “By reducing tobacco’s toll and by protecting youth from indoor tanning, we can reduce suffering and death from this disease.”

Throughout the day 120 volunteers were able to meet with 70 legislative offices, and volunteers were able to hear from Ohio Department of Health medical director Dr. Mark Hurst and Ohio State University men’s basketball coach Chris Holtmann, who participates in the Coaches vs. Cancer program.

The Ohio volunteers asked the legislature toproperly fund the state’s Tobacco Use Cessation and Prevention Program by investing $35 million, restoring funding to mid-2000 investment levels. A minimum of $35 million per year would allow the state to revive its once successful and impactful comprehensive program. This investment will allow the state to help prevent kids from starting to use tobacco products and to help people quit while delivering health and cost-saving benefits to Ohio.