RUMFORD – Lura Raymond of Orono and Diane Mitchell of Rumford united with more than 500 cancer survivors, patients, volunteers and supporters from all 50 states in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 24 to 26 to lobby members of Congress in support of policies that will help prevent and fight cancer.

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan sister organization, hosted its annual leadership summit and lobby day to give volunteers the opportunity to meet with their elected officials to urge their support of lifesaving federal initiatives critical to reducing suffering and death from cancer.

Mitchell first became involved with the American Cancer Society in 1977 after losing her sister-in-law to breast cancer. Her subsequent research into family health history led to a startling discovery. She said, “Our family has lost 21 members to cancer and currently there are more battling the disease. When my sister-in-law was diagnosed, I promised her that I would do everything possible to promote early detection programs and awareness.”

Mitchell’s determination to do more led her to join the Cancer Action Network and work as an advocate for cancer funding and research. She said, “I have seen great progress in the fight against cancer, not only in my family, but in the community. There is better quality of life now for cancer patients.”

Mitchell also serves at the chairwoman of the Relay For Life of Rumford and assists with the society’s Daffodil Days in March.

For more information about cancer anytime, contact the American Cancer Society toll free at 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.