While much has been accomplished in breast cancer awareness and research in the past three decades, champions of the cause remain focused on what remains to be done to eradicate the deadly disease.
The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday honored Susan G. Komen for the Cure founder Nancy Goodman Brinker for receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom last year, America's highest civilian honor. The organization has invested nearly $1.5 billion for research, treatment, health and education services since its founding in 1982.
"You always are looking to the future rather than what you've accomplished in the past. I'm deeply honored we've been able to do the work that we have. There are only much bigger things in store," Brinker said.
She is organizing the first ever technology gap summit, likely in fall, to address gaps in mammography technology.
"October will be the coming together of pink power. The funding of research. Pink doesn't just mean ribbons and races. It means global advocacy and funding," Brinker said. "What are we doing in other countries to make people aware of the devastation this disease creates? We have a lot of work on our plate."
Brinker launched the Race for the Cure as part of a global campaign in the fight against breast cancer. Generally, such House resolutions of recognition are offered only posthumously.
"Nancy Goodman Brinker's contributions to society are far from over. While many might retire given this long resume of accomplishments, she continues to take on the mantle and fight," said U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock, R-Peoria, who authored the resolution.
Brinker established the Komen for the Cure Foundation in memory of her sister, who passed away from breast cancer in 1980.
Under her leadership, the Komen organization has established more than 120 American affiliates with a presence in 50 countries. Also last year, Brinker was named the first-ever World Health Organization's Goodwill ambassador for cancer control.
Karen McDonald can be reached at 686-3285 or kmcdonald@pjstar.com.
