Today, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) hosted its annual Lights of Hope ceremony at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, uniting cancer survivors, caregivers, advocates and state lawmakers to honor those affected by cancer and to highlight progress made—and still needed—in cancer early detection.
Held in the East Wing Rotunda, the display featured 127 Lights of Hope bags, representing the estimated 27,000 Pennsylvanians who will lose their lives to cancer in 2025. Each personalized bag symbolized the strength, resilience and memories of individuals who have faced cancer, which served as a visual reminder of the importance of continued investment in prevention, early detection and access to care.
“Today’s event reflects what our work is ultimately about: honoring the lives touched by cancer and advancing policies that give Pennsylvanians the tools to prevent, detect and survive it,” said Donna Greco, ACS CAN Pennsylvania government relations director. “We are grateful to all of our partners who champion early detection and support the family of bills moving through the Legislature to extend lifesaving screenings and diagnostic imaging to more Pennsylvanians.”
As part of the program, ACS CAN recognized Representative Gina H. Curry and Senator Frank Farry with the 2025 Legislative Champions of the Year award. Both lawmakers were honored for championing legislation (Senate Bill 88 and House Bill 433) that would eliminate out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging. The bill—currently awaiting final passage and Governor Shapiro’s approval—would remove a major barrier to early detection for countless Pennsylvanians.
“I am honored to receive the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s 2025 Legislative Champion of the Year award," said Representative Gina H. Curry. “Expanding access to the imaging Pennsylvanians need to rule out or detect breast cancer early has been a priority of mine. No one should have to delay life-saving care because they cannot afford essential diagnostic imaging. Removing this cost barrier is an important step forward for Pennsylvania and the people we serve.”
Senator Frank Farry added, “I am honored to be recognized by the American Cancer Society for my legislative efforts, but it is not about me. It is about enacting policy, so Pennsylvanians have access to no cost diagnostic cancer testing.”
Attendees also heard from cancer survivor and ACS CAN volunteer Dr. Sara Marian Lucking, who shared how she found hope amid treatment for inflammatory breast cancer and how early detection can offer that same hope to others. 
“When I was first diagnosed, hope evaded me,” said Dr. Lucking. “But over time, I recognized that I was part of a larger community of patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, clinicians and advocates. That community gave me the strength I needed to push forward for myself and for my four young sons. Each of us helps make hope possible—whether by ensuring patients can detect their breast cancer early, as Senate Bill 88 and House Bill 433 aim to do; by researching new treatments; or by offering the kind of support only a caregiver can provide. Every role matters.”
Community members were invited to decorate Lights of Hope bags with names, messages and artwork in honor of loved ones, creating a powerful visual tribute throughout the Rotunda.
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.