It is estimated that 14.5 million Americans who have been diagnosed with cancer are alive today, and as the spouse of a cancer survivor, I am proud to join many of you on National Survivors Cancer Day in celebrating the lives of those who have won their battle against cancer. Investments in cutting edge cancer research have led to early detection and treatment that can often save the lives of those battling cancer.
To do my part in the fight for a cure, I have worked to see that as a nation we make advancements and strides forward in cancer research. Throughout my time in Congress, I have fought against proposed cuts to important cancer research initiatives. However, it isn’t enough to just fight against cuts, we must stand up to fully fund these initiatives. This Congress, I strongly urged the House Appropriations Committee to fully fund research initiatives on some of the most common and deadly cancers, including breast and prostate cancer. I have also continually fought for full funding of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which oversees the nation’s largest cancer research program. Research initiatives like these play a critical role in improving and lengthening the lives of those affected by cancer.
On National Cancer Survivors Day, I want to recognize and celebrate the lives of those who have battled and survived cancer. As the husband of a cancer survivor, I am inspired and motivated everyday by the drive, courage, and strength that these folks demonstrate. I am hopeful that one day, with the right investments in research, every individual touched by cancer will be able to call themselves a survivor.
Sincerely,
Dave Loebsack
Iowa's Second District
