Today, the Lung Cancer
Alliance (LCA) hailed Congressman Charles Norwood (R-GA) for his courage
and willingness to publicly disclose his valiant battle with lung cancer.
"Sharing this kind of news with family, friends and constituents is
never easy, but in doing so, Congressman Norwood is showing courage and
selflessness," said Laurie Fenton, President of the Lung Cancer Alliance.
"Even during this very difficult time, Congressman Norwood continues his
lifelong commitment to advocacy for patients' rights by informing people
about the enormous toll lung cancer takes on all sectors of our community.
The congressman helps shine the light on the urgent need for more research,
earlier detection and better treatments for the number one cancer killer."
Edward J. Levitt, Executive Director of LCA's Georgia chapter said, "He
is a true hero and we are all praying for him."
During the twelve years Congressman Norwood has represented eastern
Georgia in the U.S. House of Representatives, he has distinguished himself
as a nationally recognized leader and the author of major legislation on
patients' rights and health care benefits for veterans and military
retirees.
Lung cancer is killing more people each year than breast, prostate,
colon, melanoma, liver and kidney cancers combined. Only 16 percent of lung
cancer cases are diagnosed at Stage 1, when the cancer can be treated and
cured.
The stigma of smoking has led to the under funding of lung cancer
research and early detection programs, even though more than 60 percent of
new lung cancer cases are diagnosed in people who never smoked, were
exposed to significant second-hand smoke (10-15 percent), or in former
smokers (50 percent) who had already quit, many of them decades ago.
Both Fenton and Levitt assured Congressman Norwood, his wife, Gloria,
and his family of their admiration, support and gratitude.
"We are committed to dedicating our continued efforts in Congressman
Norwood's name to raise awareness of the need for early detection and the
devastating statistics on lung cancer that have been ignored for too long,"
Fenton said.
The Lung Cancer Alliance (LungCancerAlliance),
headquartered in Washington D.C., is the only national non-profit
organization solely dedicated to patient support and advocacy for people
living with, or at risk for, lung cancer. The Georgia chapter is headed by
Executive Director Edward J. Levitt of Acworth, GA.
Lung Cancer Alliance
LungCancerAlliance