Benishek Joins Effort to Combat Women’s Cancer

WASHINGTON, DC: Dr. Dan Benishek (MI-01) announced yesterday that he has joined the Congressional committee for the 2012 National Race to End Women’s Cancer.

“I’ve treated patients in Northern Michigan for 30 years and have seen firsthand the devastating effects of cancer on women, their families and our communities. I am pleased to be part of this effort to help end this terrible disease. It’s inspiring to see so many of my colleagues joining together for such an important cause,” said Dr. Benishek, a general surgeon from Iron River.

The 2012 National Race to End Women’s Cancer will take place on November 4 and is sponsored by the Foundation for Women’s Cancer, a nonprofit organization that advocates for awareness and prevention of gynecological cancer. Participating teams from all over the United States will take part in the eight kilometer run or a one-mile walk on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The Foundation’s goal is to reach 5,000 participants and raise $250,000 for cancer research through registrations and contributions.

“Cancer touches all of our lives. We have all had a loved one—or known someone—who has battled this disease. It’s gratifying to see so many citizens, including Members of Congress, working for the common goal of fighting women’s cancer. I am hopeful that with efforts like this, continued research, education and medical innovations, there will finally come a day where Northern Michiganders will no longer loose loved ones to cancer,” added Dr. Benishek.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 51,000 new cases of all forms of cancer are diagnosed in Michigan each year. The same research indicates more than 20,000 people in Michigan die each year from the disease.

Other members of the Michigan Delegation serving on the Congressional committee include Representatives Dave Camp (MI-04), Fred Upton (MI-06), Gary Peters (MI- 09), Sander Levin (MI-12), Hansen Clarke (MI-13), and John Dingell (MI-15).