Pull together for a cure

We recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent cancer patients and survivors in the 5th Congressional District and deliver their messages of hope for a future without cancer. We joined more than 500 American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network volunteers from across the nation to call on lawmakers to protect funding for cancer research, prevention and early detection programs.

When Ruth and I met with representatives from Sen. Patty Murray’s, Sen. Maria Cantwell’s and Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers’ offices, we explained that continuing investment in research is critical to finding cures. Congress needs to put aside partisan politics and commit to fully funding the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control.

This funding is a win-win for everyone, as over 80 percent of the funding is returned to state universities and research facilities. It has created 16,647 jobs in Washington state alone.

Our elected officials need to hear from the 12 million cancer survivors and their families and friends. I encourage everyone to get involved by visiting www.acscan.org to connect with others in our communities. Let’s work together to end the suffering and death from cancer.

Jerry and Ruth Pechin

Evans, Wash.