CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) has placed five new billboards in the Chattanooga area to catch Congress’s attention ahead of crucial votes coming up in Washington, D.C. ACS CAN is calling on Congress to provide robust funding for the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute to ensure we can find more cures and reduce the cancer burden for everyone.
The billboard placement comes as the Administration has recommended closing the Division of Cancer Prevention and Control and cutting $18 billion from the NIH, taking funding back to levels from 2003 and threatening significant progress in the fight against cancer.
The billboards, which went live on August 4, read, “Congress: Cancer research cuts mean future cures will disappear” and urge people to text “CURES” to 73508 to get involved. They are located on Riverfront Parkway at Main Street south and northbound, Lee Highway west of Highway 153 and 2826 Amnicola Highway at Stuart Street west and eastbound.
“As a cancer survivor, I know how crucial these funds are for cancer patients and their families,” said Darlene Smith of Ooltewah. “When I was diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer, I was able to receive a drug that had just been developed thanks to clinical trial funding. That research saved my life and I want to make sure others have access to the same kind of cutting-edge treatments. I’ve since been able to make countless memories with my children and grandchildren.”
Smith and ACS CAN Tennessee Government Relations Director Maddie Michael are available for interviews.
