Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Lung Cancer Alliance Praises State Senate Action in Georgia

PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Lung Cancer Alliance (LCA) praised Georgia State Senators John Wiles (R-37th), Chip Rogers (R-21st), Judson Hill (R-32nd), Steve Thompson (D-33rd) and Doug Stoner (D-6th) for introducing Georgia Senate Resolution 1215 (S.R. 1215).

Adopted by the GA Senate at the end of the 2008 legislative session, S.R. 1215 recognizes the tireless work and dedication of LCA-GA Chairs Ed and Linda Levitt to the lung cancer movement.

Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in the United States and in Georgia, taking more lives than breast, prostate and colon cancers -- combined. This year alone, over 4,500 Georgians will die from the disease. Of those diagnosed over 60% are former smokers or never smoked at all.

"Bravo," said Laurie Fenton Ambrose, LCA President & CEO. "Anyone who has worked with Ed and Linda know that they are two of the most dedicated advocates fighting to increase awareness and correct the many public misconceptions surrounding the disease in Georgia. Thank you Georgia Senate for recognizing their important work and the positive impact it will have on so many Georgians. They are important cornerstones in the lung cancer movement."

Levitt, a stage IV lung cancer survivor, and his wife, Linda formed the first state chapter of LCA in 2006. Since then, LCA-GA has been a leader in patient support, empowerment and advocacy throughout the state, securing official gubernatorial proclamations declaring November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month and partnering with Wellstar Health Systems and St. Joseph's Hospital to develop a comprehensive approach to combating lung cancer including prevention, early detection and treatment.

"We are proud of our work and are humbled by the Senate recognition," said Levitt. "With this resolution, Senator Wiles and his colleagues have recognized the importance of raising awareness and research funding for lung cancer. We will work with them to accomplish our goals."

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