Assemblymember Kevin A. Cahill: Celebrated Life on Cancer Survivors Day

June 9, 2004

Seventeen years ago, the founders of the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation, Richard and Annette Bloch, held their first Cancer Survivor Rally to demonstrate that a diagnosis of cancer was not an automatic death sentence. This year, June 6th, Cancer Survivors Day, was a day that celebrate life and united survivors – whether they are friends and family of cancer victims or survivors of cancer – in symbolic events which took place all over the country.

Each year the number of cancer survivors in America increases. Currently, 9.6 million live with a history of the disease. Survivors face unique challenges, yet, one thing remains clear: prevention, early diagnosis of cancer and first-rate treatment saves lives. That’s why the Assembly has passed into law legislation to help survivors of cancer. They are emphasizing early diagnosis and prevention, as well as supporting research and cancer mapping within the state. The Assembly passed laws that:

• ensure early diagnosis of cancers that affect women by requiring health insurance to cover such early diagnoses (Ch. 554 of 2002);
• promote diagnostic screening for prostate cancer (Ch. 601 of 2000);
• protect cancer survivors from insurance discrimination based on genetic history (Ch. 599 or 2003); and
• ban smoking inside restaurants and provide programs to help smokers quit (Ch. 13 of 2003).

Cancer survivors have reason to remain hopeful – they can expect prolonged lives and improved quality of life after they recover. Another day living cancer-free is a milestone worthy of celebration on any day.

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