FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Berry Edwards
703-519-2107
Lisa.Edwards@preventcancer.org
WASHINGTON, September 26, 2019–The Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program® this week held its 27th annual Action for Cancer Awareness Awards luncheon at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
The Program’s signature event draws a bipartisan, bicameral audience of members of Congress and their spouses, as well as leaders in the cancer prevention community, to recognize the outstanding contributions of those using their platforms to educate the public about cancer prevention and early detection. Investigation Discovery’s Paula Zahn served as the master of ceremonies.
“Cancer affects us all, regardless of gender, race, socioeconomic status or political party,” said Lisa McGovern, Executive Director of the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program®. “This program allows us to put aside any political differences and focus on a common goal—educating the public on cancer prevention and early detection to save lives. On this day in particular, partisanship is left at the door, and we come together to honor these amazing people who work tirelessly to help their communities and renew our collective commitment to work together to stop cancer before it starts.”
This year’s event honored U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg; actor/producer and founder of the Dempsey Center, Patrick Dempsey; and congressional spouses LeeAnn Johnson of Ohio and Amanda Soto of Florida.
- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Special Recognition Award. Justice Ginsburg has served as an Associate Justice for the Supreme Court of the United States since 1993. A cancer survivor, Justice Ginsburg began regularly exercising with a trainer as a way to strengthen her body following treatment for her first cancer diagnosis at age 66. At age 86, she continues her notoriously rigorous exercise regime, inspiring Americans of all ages to prioritize health and fitness to reduce their cancer risk.
- Patrick Dempsey, Excellence in Cancer Awareness Award. Mr. Dempsey is a well-known television and film actor and producer, best known for his role on the hit television series, “Grey’s Anatomy.” Following his mother’s ovarian cancer diagnosis, Mr. Dempsey founded the Dempsey Center in his hometown of Lewiston, Maine. Since 2008, the Center has been providing free services and resources for patients, survivors, families and caregivers dealing with cancer.
- LeeAnn Johnson (spouse of Rep. Bill Johnson of Ohio), Congressional Families Leadership Award. Mrs. Johnson is an active member of the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program® and Executive Council, regularly submitting informational op-eds to her local media outlets and participating in educational seminars. As a dental hygienist of 13 years, she has screened for oral cancers during exams and cleanings. Mrs. Johnson is currently organizing a screening and awareness event at her local hospital in collaboration with the Congressional Families Program®.
- Amanda Soto (spouse of Rep. Darren Soto of Florida), Congressional Families Leadership Award. A committed member of the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program® and Executive Council, Mrs. Soto regularly submits op-eds and social media posts to educate Floridians on the importance of cancer prevention and early detection. Inspired by a Congressional Families seminar highlighting the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Breast Health Education for Young Women Facilitator’s Guide, Mrs. Soto organized two breast cancer awareness events featuring local bilingual doctors in her home district to educate Florida women, with a focus on Latina communities.
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About the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program®
The Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program® began in 1991 as a partnership between the Prevent Cancer Foundation® and The Congressional Club, a bipartisan organization of spouses of Members of the House, Senate, Cabinet and Supreme Court. Spouses active in the Program share an interest in advancing cancer prevention and early detection programs and education. For more information, visit www.congressionalfamilies.org.
About the Prevent Cancer Foundation®
The Prevent Cancer Foundation® is one of the nation’s leading voluntary health organizations and the only U.S. nonprofit organization focused solely on cancer prevention and early detection. Founded in 1985, it has catapulted cancer prevention to prominence and fulfills its mission through research, education, outreach and advocacy. For more information, visit www.preventcancer.org.
