Lisa A. Lacasse: Public policy advocacy is crucial in the fight against cancer

Lisa A. Lacasse shared the following on LinkedIn:

“Last week was a powerful reminder of why our public policy advocacy is so crucial in the fight against cancer. Nearly 750 American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) participants—our largest group yet—gathered in Washington, D.C. to advocate on behalf of everyone impacted by cancer. Together, we represented all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and nearly every congressional district during our 18th annual Leadership Summit & Lobby Day (LS&LD)!

My sincerest gratitude to everyone who had a hand in planning, executing, and engaging in these impactful days of advocacy! ACS CAN advocates participated in meetings with every Senate office and 376 House offices, including 83 member-level meetings and 142 senior staff-level meetings. Volunteers reported back positive and insightful conversations with their lawmakers that yielded increased support for and co-sponsorship of our priority issues.

We were also proud to honor our National Distinguished Advocacy Award (NDAA) recipients. This award is the highest national advocacy honor bestowed by ACS CAN.

Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) joined us in the ballroom to accept her NDAA award for her commitment to improving access to cancer screenings, particularly her introduction of the Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Care Act.

Representative Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-CA) also received the NDAA award for his tireless dedication to cancer patients and introducing the Clinical Trial Modernization Act, which would make it easier for more patients to participate in the best trial options available.

Pennsylvania State Senator Devlin Robinson (R) was recognized for sponsoring his state’s Paid Family & Medical Leave Act and advocating for the passage of biomarker legislation to help ensure that patients have access to the most effective treatment for their cancer or illness.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison was recognized for his significant contribution to protecting Minnesotans from the harms of commercial tobacco, the cause of roughly 30% of all cancer deaths, and medical debt relief work. He took on Big Tobacco by taking JUUL and Altria to trial, securing more than $60 million.

Colorado Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera was recognized for her efforts to ensure every Coloradan has access to lifesaving cancer screenings and treatment. A cancer survivor herself, her track record of cancer advocacy includes passage of a bill ensuring insurance coverage for annual breast cancer screening for all individuals possessing at least one risk factor.

Thanks for your partnership in our work to end cancer as we know it, for everyone!

Can’t wait until next year!”

Source: Lisa A. Lacasse/LinkedIn

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Lisa A. Lacasse, President of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), has an impactful leadership in healthcare advocacy. Leading ACS CAN’s nationwide public policy advocacy agenda with her oversight of a dedicated team in Washington, D.C., she ensures effective advocacy efforts at the highest levels. Beyond her role at ACS CAN, Lacasse’s commitment to public health extends to serving on the board for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.