U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison's Stewardship Benefits Blood Cancer Patients and their Families

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Friday, 27 June 2003

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Congratulates the Senator for Playing an Instrumental Role in Funding Major Blood Cancer Education Program

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society extends its gratitude to U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) for securing $5 million to bring vital education services to blood cancer patients and their families.

The Geraldine Ferraro Blood Cancer Education Program was established last year as part of the Hematological Cancer Research Investment and Education Act, championed by Sen. Hutchison and signed into law by President Bush on May 14, 2002. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will administer the program.

"We applaud Senator Hutchison for her dedication to helping patients with leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma and their families," said George Dahlman, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Vice President of Public Policy. "The Senator's tireless efforts made the funding of this important educational program possible and demonstrate her compassion and commitment to the patients we serve.

"As the leading organization providing services to blood cancer patients and their families, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society knows firsthand that patients armed with comprehensive, up-to-date information can make better health decisions to improve their quality of life. The educational program shepherded by Senator Hutchison will directly and positively impact the lives of these patients."

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The Society, headquartered in White Plains, NY, is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. The Society's mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, the Society has provided more than $358 million for research specifically targeting blood cancers.

As the leading resource for blood cancer information and support, the Society offers up-to-date, free information by telephone and Internet; conducts life-enhancing patient services programs nationwide through its 62 chapters, including support groups, back-to-school counseling and support, peer counseling and patient financial aid; and hosts seminars where medical professionals share leading-edge research with patients. In addition, the Society advocates for legislation to increase research funding and improve medical coverage for people fighting blood cancers.

For more information, or to contact Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, see their website at: www.leukemia.org