Michael Holtz

More than 12 years ago -- on March 27, 2012,  just five days after my 43rd birthday -- I heard the words that strike fear into the hearts of most people.

"You have cancer."

Stage-3b rectal cancer, as it turns out. The treatment that followed diagnosis included oral chemotherapy combined with radiation treatment, surgery to remove the tumor and resulted in my having a permanent colostomy, and six months of follow-up chemotherapy infusions. It was a long and difficult 11 months, and in the end I realized then and still recognize that I'm one of the lucky ones. 

I'm still here. 

I know far too many people who have succumbed to colorectal cancer who were diagnosed at the same stage I was. And, I know far too many people who have faced cancer of any kind. 

I turned my pain into purpose in 2015 when I became a volunteer for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. Advocates like me work tirelessly to change policies that impact people with cancer, their loved ones, and those who survive their disease. It's also a reason I'm so passionate about Lights of Hope.  

The Lights of Hope event is ACS CAN’s signature fundraiser dedicated to honoring those who have been impacted by cancer and remembering those lost. Through Lights of Hope, we have the opportunity to honor and remember those who have faced cancer, whether as a patient, a survivor or a caregiver. 

I advocate -- and fundraise -- because I am working for the day when we end cancer as we know it. I have nine nieces and nephews. I long for the day when their children and grandchildren can ask the question, "what was cancer?"

Do you know a survivor, someone in treatment, someone who passed from cancer, or someone who served as a caregiver? Honor them by dedicating a Light of Hope and help us send a visible reminder to Congress that they need to make fighting cancer a legislative priority.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Michael 

Contributions or membership payments to the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Inc. are not tax deductible.