Colorado Mourns Loss of Leading Advocate in Fight Against Cancer

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is deeply saddened over the sudden passing of our dear colleague and friend, R.J. Ours, who served with the organization for more than two decades, most recently as Colorado Government Relations Director.

Ours was a leading advocate who ensured all Coloradans have a fair and equitable chance to fight cancer. His voice was critical in working with local, state, and federal lawmakers to strengthen the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancer statewide. 

Public health in Colorado is stronger today because of Ours’ impact. 

“I am very saddened at the loss of R.J. Ours, a dear friend, a pillar of our community, and a fierce advocate for Coloradans impacted by cancer,” said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera. “R.J dedicated his career to passionately pursuing legislative action to provide awareness, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. His work saved thousands of lives and will endure long into the future. My heart goes out to R.J’s family during this difficult time.”

Ours was an extraordinary member of the ACS CAN family who inspired many others through his commitment to our organization’s mission and was steadfast in his desire to make a difference for those impacted by cancer. Even more, he was an incredible person and colleague who led with compassion, integrity, and kindness.

"R.J.'s passing is a tremendous loss for all of us at ACS CAN," said Lisa Lacasse, ACS CAN President. "R.J. brought compassion, integrity, and kindness into every relationship and every piece of work he touched. His contributions strengthened our organization, but even more importantly, his presence strengthened us. My heart is with his family, loved ones, and all those who worked closely with him for nearly two decades with ACS CAN in Colorado."

During his tenure with the organization, Ours fought to expand access to biomarker testing, opposed policies backed by Big Tobacco and helped win Medicaid expansion in Colorado. His advocacy helped thousands of residents and left a lasting mark on patients and families across the state.

“R.J. fought for cancer patients, their families, and caregivers in Colorado for decades,” said Mark Anderson, ACS CAN Vice President of Regional Advocacy. “He fought against harmful tobacco and flavored tobacco, and e-cigarettes. He championed access to insurance coverage and cancer innovations like biomarker testing.  Our entire state owes a debt of gratitude to R.J. for his dedication to improving the lives of those fighting and surviving cancer.”

Ours is also credited with building and managing a robust team of volunteers, which includes cancer survivors, patients, and caregivers from every corner of the state. He worked tirelessly to ensure their voices were heard by lawmakers at every level of government on cancer-related issues. 

“R.J. will be sorely missed by our team of volunteers,” said Sabrina Wright-Hobart, ACS CAN Colorado State Lead Ambassador. “As a cancer survivor, I couldn’t ask for a better advocate. For years, R.J.’s kindness, professionalism, and firm belief in the power of public policy have truly made a difference for patients and survivors in Colorado. R.J. was our bridge and voice to lawmakers, and I will forever admire his unwavering dedication to our mission and progress. This is a tremendous loss for our community. Our hearts are with his family as they mourn.” 

ACS CAN sends its deepest condolences to the Ours’ family and loved ones during this very difficult and unexpected time. We look forward to honoring his life and continuing to uphold his commitment to ending cancer as we know it.