WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26), Congressman Mike Kelly (PA-16), and Congressman Derek Kilmer (WA-06), co-chairs of the House Cancer Caucus, introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate September 30th as Rare Cancer Day.

Rare Cancer Day is observed on September 30 to highlight the challenges patients face and to unify individuals living with rare cancers for awareness and early diagnosis. Approximately 1 in 5 Americans living with cancer are diagnosed with a rare cancer. Additionally, all pediatric cancers are considered rare, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), meaning 15 million children in the United States are living with rare cancers. 

“An estimated one in five Americans living with cancer are diagnosed with a rare form of the disease,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to recognize patients living with rare forms of cancer and encourage more research, treatment, and early detection.”

“Millions of families are impacted by a rare cancer diagnosis each year and recognizing the challenges they face is a critical step in the fight to end cancer as we know it,” said Congressman Higgins. “Rare Cancer Day highlights the urgent need to facilitate research into new treatments and support access to preventative care. I am proud join my colleagues on the House Cancer Caucus in introducing this resolution for the patients hoping for remission and the families who have lost loved ones to the many types of uncommon cancers."

"Cancer does not discriminate, it has impacted all of us in some way," said Congressman Kelly. "Today, we recognize Rare Cancer Day to raise awareness and support research that will work toward a brighter tomorrow for all Americans who are battling cancer. I thank my House Cancer Caucus colleagues for joining me in this effort."

"Like most families in America, my family has been touched by cancer – and unfortunately, one in five of people living with cancer has a rare cancer,” said Congressman Kilmer. “But with the right investments, this country can lead the charge in finding a cure. I’m proud to co-sponsor this bipartisan resolution highlighting the challenges facing folks living with rare cancer and committing to ensuring rare cancers get the research funding to find cures."

"We applaud the congressional recognition of Rare Cancer Day. This resolution is significant and helps us raise awareness for the challenges that the rare cancer community faces," said John Hopper, Founder Patient Activation Group, Co-Chair NORD Rare Cancer Coalition and board director of rare cancer foundation-SARC (sarcoma). "We appreciate the efforts of the House Cancer Caucus and join them as we work towards early diagnosis, treatment, and better outcomes for rare cancer patients.” 

“Rare Cancer Day is a time for us to come together to raise awareness, support innovative research and foster collaborations for the rare cancer community," said Jim Palma, CEO, TargetCancer Foundation; Founding Co-Chair, NORD Rare Cancer Coalition. "This resolution is encouraging to patients, advocates, scientists, and clinicians as we work to develop lifesaving treatment protocols for rare cancers.” 

“We praise the lawmakers who are working with patients affected by these rare cancers directly, and work alongside companies dedicated to bringing treatments and cures,” said David Sanders, Vice President of Government Affairs and Policy at Coherus Biosciences. “We can develop effective treatments for these rare diseases by working together. We’re incredibly proud of our partnership, and we are grateful for Congress’s recognition and commitment.”

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