Illinois State Lead Ambassador

Maggie Powell

Maggie Powell alwasy supported advocacy work, but took her volunteerism to the next level with ACS CAN right after Celebration on the Hill. She became an ACT Lead with ACS CAN in 2010, the Vice State Lead Ambassador in 2021 and State Lead Ambassador in 2023. She lives in Waukegon, IL. 

Why are you a cancer advocate?

I was diagnosed with breast cancer just a few weeks before my 47th birthday. I think about my own cancer treatment, the surgery and chemotherapy, and cannot imagine being diagnosed with this diesease and not having access to care. I've been very blessed, which is why I fight so hard for those who don't have access to the same resources I did. 

Why should others in your community get involved in ACS CAN?

There is so much power in telling our stories. I remember my first "win" as a volunteer, passing Smoke-Free Illinois. It just so happened that a bus load of us were headed down to Springfield for our annual Day at the Capitol event, now Cancer Action Day.  Just days before our Day at the Capitol, the bill passed.  There was great celebration, and we all paraded through the streets of Springfield to the Capitol.

Why is being an ACS CAN volunteer important to you?

From my relatively short time as a member of ACS CAN, I believe the structure of this organization affords it the best chance of being a change agent for cancer patients. ACS CAN is a driving force for getting more research funding, improving lives of cancer patients, and preventing cancer.

Want to join me in the fight against cancer? Fill out this form to sign up to be an ACS CAN volunteer in Illinois.