[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 178 (Thursday, November 17, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S6773]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PINK RIBBON CAMPAIGN
Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I would like to share a few words today to
acknowledge the 30th anniversary of the Estee Lauder Companies' Breast
Cancer Campaign and the important work this organization has done to
expand breast cancer awareness.
When Evelyn H. Lauder cocreated the pink ribbon and launched the
campaign back in 1992, breast cancer research was underfunded and few
folks understood the dangers of this deadly disease.
In the past three decades, the Pink Ribbon Campaign has led the
charge to raise awareness and collect funds for lifesaving breast
cancer research and treatment. The campaign and charitable foundation
has collectively dedicated more than $108 million to fund research,
education, and medical services, including therapy and counseling
services, as well as expanded access to mammograms and screenings for
vulnerable groups with limited access to healthcare.
Like too many folks across this country, the disease touched my
family when my wife, Sharla, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020.
Fortunately, Sharla caught it early, and 2 years after her final
chemotherapy treatment, she is cancer-free.
We often hear that ``it takes a village''--well, when it comes to
cancer, that saying is true. We couldn't have gotten through Sharla's
treatment without the tireless efforts of Montana's top-notch medical
professionals, support staff, and fierce advocates like the ones
working with the Pink Ribbon Campaign, who have moved the needle in the
fight against breast cancer nationwide.
So today, as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Pink Ribbon
Campaign, I want to stress that breast cancer is no joke. Check
yourself often and get regular screenings. Early detection can save
your life.
Thank you to the folks at the campaign for 30 years of lifesaving
work. Because of you, we are closer than ever to achieving a breast
cancer free world once and for all.
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