'Celebrate With Action' urging lawmakers for cancer research funding

Sep 21, 2011 7:48pm

(NECN: Brendan Monahan, Worcester, MA) – When Dotty Hargrove began volunteering with the American Cancer Society 12 years ago, she had no idea how close to home her efforts would hit.

“I got that terrible news I had it,” Hargrove said. “That put a different face on my work.”

Hargrove was diagnosed with breast cancer but credits early detection with saving her life. She wishes it could have saved her sister’s life, who lost her own battle with breast cancer.

“We do have early detection measures now so please take advantage of what we have because she'd be standing next to me today,” Hargrove said of her sister.

Dozens rallied Wednesday for ‘Celebrate with Action,’ one of 250 events around the country this week urging lawmakers to double the funding for cancer research.

“Appropriating money for cancer research is a no brainer,” said the woman in charge of Worcester’s event. “It should be quite simple.”

Local cancer advocates will be taking this banner to Washington on Sunday asking politicians for more support.

“I want to say I don't know why we have to go down and bed. We need the dollars it's important,” said Hargrove. “This disease is horrific.”

Dr. Dan Bolon is a cancer researcher at UMass Medical School. He says federal funding is crucial.

“Detection and treatment is improving dramatically for some cancers,” said Dr. Bolon. “I'd say breast cancer is getting better… doesn't mean it's not debilitating. It's not cured.”

Hargrove says building momentum helps to honor.

“For all of us survivors, the families impacted, it’s critical we get dollars.”

Tags: Worcester, breast cancer , lawmakers, Hope Lodge, funding, cancer research, Brendan Monahan, american cancer society, celebrate with action

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