September 18th marked the 22nd annual Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program’s Action for Cancer Awareness Awards Luncheon. The program’s signature event, held on Capitol Hill, recognizes the activities of congressional spouses, media representatives and other advocates for excellence in cancer education, awareness and prevention.
This year’s theme was leadership in prevention, honoring CVS Health, award winning NBC News journalist Nancy Snyderman, M.D. and congressional spouse Linda Bachus of Alabama. Investigation Discovery Channel’s Paula Zahn served as the event’s master of ceremonies. Honorees were recognized for their leadership and outstanding contributions to cancer prevention using their respective platforms to advance the cause.
CVS Health was presented with the Excellence in Cancer Awareness Award for corporate leadership; accepted by Andrew Sussman, Senior Vice President/Associate Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health. In February of this year, the corporation demonstrated bold leadership and committed to stop selling cigarettes and other tobacco products at its 7,700 CVS/pharmacy stores by October 1, 2014. CVS Health is the first nationwide pharmacy chain to take tobacco products off the shelves, completing their goal ahead of schedule on September 3, 2014.
Nancy Snyderman, M.D., NBC News Chief Medical Editor was awarded the Distinguished Service in Journalism Award for media leadership. Dr. Snyderman is one of the most respected voices on television, reporting daily on critical public health issues, including cancer and cancer prevention.
Linda Bachus, (Mrs. Spencer Bachus, Alabama) was presented the Congressional Families Leadership Award for her role as the first executive director of the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program. Mrs. Bachus took the helm of an effort led by spouse volunteers and supported by Foundation staff and expanded is impact and reach.
This event attracts Washington’s foremost cancer prevention advocates and enjoys unique bipartisan, bicameral support, and brings together members, spouses and leaders in the cancer community to highlight our mission and dedication to cancer prevention and early detection. Numerous members of congress attended to show their support for the important work the honorees are doing in cancer prevention, including Sen. Patrick Leahy, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Rep. Jim McGovern, Rep. Frank Pallone, Rep. Spencer Bachus, Rep. Charlie Dent and Rep. John Mica among numerous others. From the diplomatic community, spouses Laura Denise Bisongiero and Laura Medina-Mora were in attendance.
Congratulations to our honorees. We look forward to working together to Stop Cancer Before It Starts!
No Comments