- Fall 2004 -

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Celebrates Achievements

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation recently honored four leaders in the fight against breast cancer at its annual public policy luncheon on Capitol Hill. The event brought together advocates, policymakers, medical professionals, researchers, grant recipients and volunteers of the Komen Foundation to
recognize four individuals who have improved the lives of those touched by breast cancer.

"The strategies and tactics of the Komen Foundation have changed in the last two decades, but our goal remains the same: a world without breast cancer," says Susan Braun, president and chief executive officer of the Komen Foundation. "We have made great strides since our inception in 1982, but our work is far from done. It is only with the tireless efforts of individuals like those being honored today that we are able to further our mission to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease."

The Connie Mack Award for Outstanding Achievement is presented annually to a public servant who has demonstrated a deep-rooted commitment to enhancing breast cancer awareness. This year's award was presented jointly to Congressman and Mrs. John D. Dingell who were members of the original founding committee for the Komen National Race for the Cure¨ in Washington, D.C.

Congressman Dingell (D-MI) introduced legislation such as the Mammography Quality Standards Act that provides more women with access to a quality, safe and reliable mammogram. He also co-sponsored legislation authorizing the extension of a semi-postal stamp that supports breast cancer research. Deborah Dingell has been a long-time supporter of numerous breast cancer programs through her work as vice-chair of the General Motors Foundation.

The Komen Champion of Change Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to advancing the interests of minorities and the medically underserved by expanding access to quality health care. This year's recipient was Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-OH) who co-chairs the bipartisan House Cancer Caucus and has authored several legislative initiatives. Such initiatives include a bill that provides Medicare coverage of breakthrough oral cancer medications for seniors and legislation that would require health plans to pay for the routine care costs for cancer patients in clinical trials.

The Komen Women's Health Advocate Award is presented to an individual who has been an advocate on behalf of women's health issues, broadening awareness and bringing about positive change for women. This year's recipient was Secretary of Health and Human Services, Tommy G. Thompson, who launched major initiatives to respond to our nation's health needs including increasing funding for breast and cervical cancer screenings. In addition, he supports the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), which provides free mammograms to women with little or no health insurance, as well as follow-up care for thousands of women who otherwise could not afford these potentially life-saving services.