For Immediate Release

9/22/06 

The Center for Cancer Care Supports Wall of Hope Monument in Washington D.C.

Goshen, Ind. - Millions of signatures were displayed on banners forming the Wall of Hope Monument in Washington D.C. this week, as a part of Celebration on the Hill 2006. Among the signatures were many local survivors and colleagues from the Center for Cancer Care.

Nearly 10,000 cancer patients, survivors and their families from all over the country gathered on the National Mall for the event. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action NetworkSM (ACS CAN), the celebration attracts nationwide attention to the call for government support of cancer, research, prevention and early detection programs.

As a part of the event The Wall of Hope, which spans four city blocks and represents over 3 million signatures, is erected as a national monument to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. It is constructed of banners from every Congressional District and adorned with signatures and messages of support from volunteers nationwide. The monument is temporary and will be taken down after the event.

Last year, Congress voted to reduce funding for cancer research for the first time in a decade. Additional cuts are being considered this year.

Celebration on the Hill was first held in 2002 and raised the awareness of cancer issues among policymakers everywhere. The goals of Celebration on the Hill 2006, are to elevate cancer as a top national priority and encourage lawmaker support for policies that will get the nation back on track toward meeting the national challenge goal of eliminating suffering and death due to cancer by the year 2015.

Goshen Health System is a not-for-profit provider of health care that includes Goshen General Hospital, The Center for Cancer Care, Park Home Medical Equipment, PrimeCare Physician Network, Team:Bariatrics, The Retreat Women's Health Center and Indiana Lakes Managed Care Organization. The health system is an affiliate partner of Clarian Health, which includes Indiana University Hospital, Methodist Hospital of Indianapolis and Riley Hospital for Children. For more information about Goshen Health System visit www.goshenhealth.com.