Today is National Cancer Survivors Day. Did you know that there are over 11 million cancer survivors in the US? This sounds like a big number, but when you stop to think about the number of people that have been lost to cancer, it really puts it all into perspective.
This week, Standup2Cancer.org launched their website. For only $1 you can donate in the name of a family member, friend or co-worker who has struggled with the disease in any of its forms. You can create a star in their name and the star will be part of a "constellation" on the website. Funds that are raised will go toward cancer research. If you're like me, you probably thought that Federal funding for cancer research was a regular and ongoing source. However, many Federal grants have dried up.
It's time to take this into our own hands. All it takes is a buck (though you can donate more). Since most of us know someone who currently has cancer, is a survivor, or has been taken from us too soon because of this insidious disease (which is most of us), this is the perfect way to honor your loved ones. I know I did.
Did you know that every minute someone dies from cancer? It's true. We are that close to a cure for many forms of the disease. This is our chance to try and make a difference, to ensure that our children might just see a future without cancer.
Imagine it.
On Friday, September 5, the "Big Three" networks will host an unprecedented primetime fundraiser for StandUp2Cancer. The goal is to put an end to cancer by raising enough money to help fund cancer research for years to come. If you want a sneak peek, their website is already up and running at http://www.standup2cancer.org/.
It might be the best dollar you ever spent.