Riding for Roses

It’s time for our nation to address our issues. Together, we can help change things for the better. As a team, we can make a difference for survivors.” – Lance Armstrong

Today is Livestrong Day – a day to celebrate cancer survivorship and take a moment to advocate for change. I’ll be posting several times today with simple actions you can take today to help fight cancer. I will describe what I am doing today and how you can join me in the fight against cancer.

Why do we need strong advocacy in the fight against cancer?

• in 2005, it is estimated (final numbers are not yet available) that 1,500 Americans died every day from cancer.
• the 2006 United States Budget reduced funding for the National Cancer Institute by $31 million.
• the five year survival rate for young adults with cancer has not improved in thirty years.
• the proposed 2007 United States Budget further reduces NCI funding by $40 million.
• in 1960, the overall five year survival rate for pediatric cancer was 4%, today it is 80%.
• Three out of every four families in the United States will have at least one family member diagnosed with cancer.

Think about the numbers. Think about the loss. Think about the opportunity. Join me today in fighting cancer. Come back here later. While you are waiting, make a small donation to fight cancer and support my six year old son, Spencer, who is riding 40 miles with me again this fall to raise money for the Lance Armstrong Foundation.