Volunteer Spotlight: Tiffany Studebaker Freeman

Role: ACT Lead Volunteer 

Hometown: Ivanhoe, VA

How did you first get involved with ACS CAN? A member of my CRC support group, Colontown, reached out and recommended that I volunteer with ACS CAN. I know it's often difficult for folks in my rural area of Appalachia to find the time and confidence to advocate for legislation that improves cancer outcomes. I was grateful for the opportunity to be a voice for the many in my area that could benefit from cancer action. 

How did you feel after that first meeting with a lawmaker? I felt hopeful! At home, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking there is nothing you can do about the laws and problems in our federal and local government. It's common to complain and see those who have different political ideals as the enemy. And it's really depressing. But showing up together with other volunteers, some who hold very different political preferences than me, to advocate for legislation that we all believe will benefit the cancer community in a positive way is a game changer. It was a unifying experience. I felt seen and heard by men and women who weren't just politicians, but real people who had been impacted by cancer also. I walked away confident that there would be a measurable positive impact for the time I invested in these meetings and with these people.  

What types of things do you do as a volunteer for ACS CAN? I connect with other volunteers. Meet with local and federal lawmakers at the capitol. Drop off materials and have conversations in my local representatives office. Submit letters to local editorials. Interview with local news broadcasters. Send emails and make calls. Stay up to date on important cancer legislation. Share my story. 

If someone said to you “I am not a political person, why should I get involved?” What would your response be? Neither am I! But I am a citizen and I recognize that even if I'm not a political person, politics affects my life and the lives of those I love and care about. You don't have to be a politician to be part of making meaningful change in the lives of people locally and across the nation. You just have to be willing to show up, share your story, and ask for support.