Early detection is key when it comes to fighting cancer. That’s the message U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, wanted to share at the LiveStrong Presidential Forum in Cedar Rapids. It’s a message he knows personally.
“Barbara and I are firm believers in early detection and annual exams,” he told forum participants on Tuesday. “This is because, a matter of fact, it saved her life.”
The senator’s wife, Barbara Grassley, was diagnosed with breast cancer 20 years ago.
“We’re lucky,” he said. “Because of early detection and her ‘can’t lose’ attitude, she’s a survivor.”
In his remarks, Grassley highlighted both his own initiatives and his party’s, saying he was “exceptionally proud” of his work on the Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection program, which provides screenings to low-income, uninsured and under-served women.
“But all of what I’ve said — whether it is President [Richard] Nixon or ongoing funding since then or legislation I’ve sponsored — that’s in the past,” he said. “Today isn’t about what we’ve done. Today is about what we do in the future to gain further ground and win this battle.”
He added that the past has taught us that “a cure isn’t going to be easy,” but promised that we can all play a role in the interim to control the disease.
“There are challenges and there are hurdles every step of the way,” he said. “But we can all do something to help — every one of us. We can get the message out. It’s very important to talk to your doctor — to encourage your mom, your dad, your kids, your friends, your neighbor to get tested.”
In closing, Grassley complimented international cyclist and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong for the role he is playing in bring awareness to cancer.
“Lance, your response to cancer is an inspiration to cancer victims as well as those who want to help fight the disease,” he said. “By working together on cancer research, by working together for more funding, more medical breakthroughs will make treatment a sure thing to follow.”
Grassley also read some of his wife’s writings from their 20th wedding anniversary.
“Twenty years and counting,” she wrote. “I take each day as it comes — just thankful that I can put both feet on the floor and go about my daily routine. I enjoy my children, grandchildren and the ‘greats’ too. I encourage other cancer patients and survivors whenever I can and I’m so thankful for all the blessings that I have been given.”
Iowa native Grassley has served Iowa in the United States Senate for more then 30 years. Barbara Grassley is a professional staff member at Chambers, Conlon and Hartwell, where she has been employed since 1987.
