The fight against cancer begins here

Cancer is the number one killer of Americans under age 85.

In Illinois alone, an estimated 25,320 people will die from the disease this year.

As a volunteer for the American Cancer Society, I hope we all find these numbers unacceptable. It is time to recommit our nation to the war on cancer. That challenge begins at home.

This summer and fall, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is bringing the cancer fight to our backyards through a nationwide bus tour.

The Fight Back Express will be in Schaumburg, Illinois on July 24 at Flyers Stadium-Alexian Field from 5:45 to 7:30 p.m.

The event features a short program of speakers along with a number of advocacy activities for attendees to partake in. Attendees will also get to sign the bus as a display of their support. The bus will be on the road through Election Day, Nov. 4.

Building a grass-roots movement united in its mission to defeat cancer and determined to put cancer at the top of the nation's agenda.

ACS CAN, the sister advocacy organization of the American Cancer Society, is committed to evidence-based policy and legislation that boosts cancer research funding at all levels; broadens access to cancer prevention methods, early detection tools and treatment; and strengthens tobacco control measures.

Let your voice be one of the millions heard across the country this election season in support of making cancer a top national priority.

Too many of us continue to lose loved ones who fought valiantly to win their personal wars against cancer.

It is time for our community to fight back.

If one person can battle this disease, a nation can defeat it. I urge all community members to come out to the event and support this wonderful cause.

Arthi Susai

American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Volunteer, Bus Captain

Schaumburg Event