Charleston, W. Va. – The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) has placed a billboard in Charleston to thank Congress for demonstrating a strong commitment to cancer prevention and cures.
“As a triple-negative breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed at age 43, I know the importance of cancer research more than most,” said West Virginia resident Jessica Carter Summers. “Without previous breakthroughs, I may not be here today. We have made significant strides in understanding and treating cancer, resulting in improved outcomes and longer lives for countless individuals.”
The billboard reads, “18M cancer survivors are here for America's 250th because of you. Thank you Congress for fighting cancer together.” The billboard is located at 3810 MacCorkle Ave SE in Charleston.
The FY26 appropriations bill included $47.2 billion for the National Institutes of Health, a $415 million increase over FY25 funding, and $7.352 billion for the National Cancer Institute, an increase of $128 million. Thanks in large part to the leadership of West Virginia's Sen. Shelly Moore Capito as chair of the powerful Senate Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, this funding strengthens the nation’s ability to pursue lifesaving breakthroughs, accelerate innovation and ensure patients and families benefit from the most advanced cancer prevention, detection and treatment.