Kathy and John Whalen of Auburn were selected to receive the American Cancer Society’s Courage Award recently.

The Whalens receive courage award

SOUTH PORTLAND – John and Kathy Whalen of Auburn were named recipients of a 2007 American Cancer Society Courage Award at the annual volunteer celebration at the Marriott Sable Oakes. Kathy Whalen is a cancer survivor and she and her husband are longtime volunteers.

“John Whalen had been a volunteer with the American Cancer Society for many years, serving on the state board of directors and as a volunteer for Daffodil Days, when his wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with cancer in 2004,” said Marie Roberge, community executive at the American Cancer Society.

Kathy has undergone surgery and numerous rounds of chemotherapy, but she and her husband have stayed involved with American Cancer Society events, including Relay For Life and Daffodil Days, and John has volunteered as a Road to Recovery driver.

“Through it all, John and Kathy just keep giving back,” said Roberge. “Truly they are an amazing couple!”

The American Cancer Society Courage Award is given annually to recognize and honor a New England cancer patient who serves as a role model because of his or her strength and courage in combating cancer.

The society is the nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering through research, education, advocacy and service.

Call 800-227-2345 anytime day or night, any day of the year for cancer information, connections to services for cancer patients or to talk with a caring person.