Uniting in the Fight

Uniting in the Fight
Starting today through tomorrow, nearly 4,000 American Cancer Society “Celebration Ambassadors will gather in Washington, DC for Celebration on the Hill 2006 – a unique event that will show our country’s lawmakers how the American Cancer Society is waging the fight against cancer in communities nationwide.

Our Ambassadors want to convince our national leaders to increase their commitment to battling the disease on all fronts – research, education, advocacy and patient services. They will meet with their members of Congress and let them know that fighting cancer is a priority to their constituents back home.

The Ambassadors will be joined by thousands of additional survivors and volunteers from across the country and they will all unite on the National Mall for a Relay For Life Celebration from 10 am – 10 pm on September 20th.

One tent for each state will line a track, in true relay style. The stars of the event will be the courageous cancer survivors who will be honored in many ways, including special victory laps and ceremonies.

At dusk, thousands of luminaria purchased by individuals throughout the U S will be lit around the nation’s Reflecting Pool to honor all people who have triumphed over cancer and to remember all those who have been lost.

Banners from each relay throughout the United States will be placed to cover many city blocks. The banners represent "The Wall of Hope". The banners were at each relay in St. Louis, Carlton and Douglas Counties. People from each relay and community signed the banner. These "Wall of Hope" Banners represent our area and send the message to congress that we are committed to the fight against cancer.

There is an Ambassador for each legislative district. The Ambassadors from Duluth are Joe Westerberg, Jim and Margaret (Peggy) Anderson, Larry and Diane Takkunen. Joe, Peggy and Larry are all cancer survivors. Larry was the co/chair of the 2006 Duluth Relay, and chair last year. All the ambassadors have been long time ACS volunteers and are perfect to be ambassadors. We are very proud that they are representing us and taking our message to our lawmakers!

See a LIVE WEBCAST Wednesday, Sept. 20th of the event starting at 10 am - 10 pm. Go to the web site: www.acscan.org