Representatives Sean Duffy (R-WI) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) to launch Congressional Ovarian Cancer Caucus at Rally on Tuesday
For Immediate Release
September 28, 2015
Representatives Sean Duffy (R-WI) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) to launch Congressional Ovarian Cancer Caucus at Rally on Tuesday
Representatives Sean Duffy (R-WI) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) to launch Congressional Ovarian Cancer Caucus at Rally on Tuesday WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tomorrow, Representatives Sean Duffy and Rosa DeLauro, who have each been personally touched by ovarian cancer will come together launch the bipartisan Congressional Ovarian Cancer Caucus and work to bring more awareness and research funding to this horrible disease.
“I witnessed the fear my sister felt when the doctor told her she had ovarian cancer. She fought this horrible disease and eventually won, but for far too many, this diagnosis does not end in remission. This Caucus gives us an opportunity to give this cause a unified voice in Congress. I am grateful to my co-chair, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, for her help in leading this effort and her longtime work as a champion for this cause that is so close to both of our hearts. Together, with our colleagues, we will elevate the conversation and be a voice for the patients, families and caregivers who have experience far too much heartbreak because of this disease,” said Representative Duffy.
Ovarian cancer is a devastating, deadly disease that takes the lives of over 14,000 women each year. There is no early detection test and the symptoms are often confused with other diseases, leaving 85% of women diagnosed in a late stage. Over 21,000 American women are diagnosed each year and 1 in 4 of them will die within a year of her diagnosis. Over 50% of them won’t make it five years.
“As a survivor of ovarian cancer, whose life was saved by early detection, I know how important it is to raise awareness about this terrible disease. I was one of the lucky ones, but no one should have to rely on luck to survive. I am proud to join Congressman Duffy in launching the Congressional Ovarian Cancer Caucus to help raise public awareness about the disease and promote research, as well as early detection and prevention efforts. This will save the lives of women across the country,” said Representative DeLauro.
While the survival rate for ovarian cancer has started to improve after nearly 40 years of stagnation, in large part due to recent advances in treatment and supportive care for patients, there is still more work to be done. Additional research and awareness is needed to catch more cases of ovarian cancer early, develop an early detection test and launch the next generation in personalized therapies for ovarian cancer. We are calling on all Members of Congress to join the newly formed Congressional Ovarian Cancer Caucus and help us make progress in the fight against this horrible disease.
“Thank you to Representatives Duffy and DeLauro for taking their passion about ovarian cancer to lead the charge against this devastating disease. Launching the Congressional Ovarian Cancer Caucus shows that ovarian cancer is a congressional priority and we’re excited to broaden support for ovarian cancer research and education,” said Calaneet Balas, CEO of the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance.
Other speakers at the rally will include Calaneet Balas, CEO of the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, Elise Kohn, MD, Head of Gynecologic Cancer Therapeutics at the National Cancer Institute, Jennie McGihon, an ovarian cancer survivor, and Megan Brown, sister and caregiver to the late Diem Brown.
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The Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (OCNA) is a powerful voice for everyone touched by ovarian cancer, connecting survivors, women at risk, caregivers and health providers with the information and resources they need. OCNA ensures that ovarian cancer is a priority for lawmakers and agencies in Washington, D.C., and throughout the country. OCNA works with the community to raise their voices on behalf of every life affected by this disease.