Linda Cerjan, a staff member of the American Cancer Society, gave the program at the noon meeting of the Rotary Club of Lawrenceville on February 11. She shared information about the mission, programs, and services provided by the ACS. Focusing on helping cancer patients and their families, the association supports research, education, and counseling. They rely on thousands of volunteers to make their programs a success. Most are familiar with the Relay for Life program, which is their main money raiser for research and the top fund-raising event in the nation. Gwinnett County has sponsored the largest event in the country for 10 years out of the last 11. But the ACS does much more. They have sponsored three research studies, one focused on the relation between cancer and tobacco, one on the relation between obesity and cancer. The third and current study focuses on genetic and environmental issues; volunteers for that study are being solicited until Feb. 18. They also provide support through numerous programs, including the National Cancer Information Center, the Cancer Survivors Network, and the Clinical Trials Matching Service. They provide cosmetic advice, wigs, and positive motivational programs for cancer patients. Celebrating their 100th anniversary this year, the American Cancer Society has proven of great benefit to many people.

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