Susan G. Komen for the Cure Celebrates Passage of Prop...( Grassroots Activism Cancer Group Par...),Health

Grassroots Activism, Cancer Group Partnerships and Bi-Partisan Support Key

to Passage of Landmark Cancer Research Legislation

DALLAS, Nov. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Susan G. Komen for the Cure, together with its 12 Texas Affiliates, commends Texas voters for passing Proposition 15, bringing $3 billion into Texas-based cancer research and programs and making the state a leader in the cancer movement.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070122/NYM084LOGO )

"It is past time to make the War on Cancer a priority, increase funds and stimulate a new era of research," said Diane Balma, Komen's vice president of public policy. "Yesterday, Texas voters took a stand, and made our state a model for others to emulate."

The passage of this unique and significant measure is a testament to the power of partnership among cancer organizations, bipartisan support among policymakers and, particularly, grassroots activism. Komen activists from around the state, along with individuals representing the Lance Armstrong Foundation, American Cancer Society and Texas Medical Association, rallied together to drive through this initiative that will potentially fill critical gaps that cause cancer to be a death sentence for too many people.

"Breast cancer activists and cancer advocates came together on a shared mission to pass legislation that could literally be the means to an end that almost sounds like a pipedream -- curing cancer," said Ramona Magid, executive director of the Komen Austin Affiliate. "While many have given their time, hearts and energy to this cause, we would not be here if it were not for the leadership of Cathy Bonner, who conceived of the idea to honor her late friend Ann Richards, as well as legislators Sen. Jane Nelson (R-Lewisville), Sen. Kirk Watson (D-Austin), Rep. Patrick Rose (D-Dripping Springs), Rep. Jim Keffer (R-Eastland), Rep. D
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