CureSearch Awarded $2.375 Million Federal Appropriation for Research
For the third year in a row, CureSearch has been awarded a federal appropriation to support childhood cancer research through the Children’s Oncology Group. Signed into law by President George W. Bush on Dec 30, 2005, the $2.375 million appropriation comes to CureSearch through the Department of Defense Appropriations Act 2006.
“The Children's Oncology Group currently receives about half of the funding they need to meet their scientific agenda,” says Kelly Cotter, CureSearch Director of Legislative Affairs and a childhood cancer survivor. “The federal appropriations through Defense will supplement this gap in funding and will allow researchers throughout the country to perform critical research and further the scientific agenda?bringing us one step closer to finding a cure for childhood cancer.”
Research is the key to a cure and supplemental federal funding is one of the critical sources of support for childhood cancer research. CureSearch recognizes the leadership of our champions in Congress, especially Congressman Bill Young (R-FL) and Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-OH).
Members of the CureSearch Childhood Cancer Advocacy Network also played a powerful role in helping CureSearch secure the appropriation. The Network mobilizes patients, survivors, family members and health professionals through an E-advocacy program and special events to raise public awareness and elevate childhood cancer issues to a national public policy priority.
In support of CureSearch’s FY06 legislative agenda, Network members sent more than 300 letters to their elected officials to urge their support of childhood cancer research appropriations requests. In June 2005, more than 275 parents, children and survivors traveled to Washington, DC for CureSearch Gold Ribbon Days to meet face-to-face with their Members of Congress. In total, the participants conducted more than 182 meetings with legislators on Capitol Hill.
Join the CureSearch Childhood Cancer Advocacy Network
Send a letter to your Members of Congress
Get more information about 2006 CureSearch Gold Ribbon Days