Suits and Sneakers at the State House

USC Basketball Coach Frank Martin, Legislators

Kick Cancer During Suits & Sneakers Event

Shoes Demonstrate Support for Cancer Patients, Survivors

University of South Carolina Basketball Coach Frank Martin successfully challenged dozens of South Carolina legislators to strap on their sneakers at the State House to demonstrate support for cancer survivors, patients and caregivers as well as to honor those who have lost their battle with the disease.

“Cancer touches everyone so it’s important to take a moment to show support for those who are fighting the disease,” said Martin. “But we are also here to remember those who fought bravely but are no longer with us.  We have a long road ahead of us to ultimately defeat this disease, hence we need to unite. All of us coaches, teachers, doctors, attorneys and South Carolina legislators need to come together to fight and overcome this deadly disease.”

This year in South Carolina, an estimated 25,550 people will be diagnosed with cancer and 10,130 are expected to die from the disease. The ACS CAN legislative priorities in South Carolina this year include: funding for cancer screening and treatment programs; supporting policies that have been proven effective in reducing tobacco use among adults and youth; and, improving patient access to palliative care.

Dozens of ACS CAN volunteers and University of South Carolina students attended the ceremony, which was held in advance of the University’s annual Relay For Life event scheduled for April 17-18.  Relay For Life is an overnight, team event which raises money to support the programs and services of the American Cancer Society.

After the ceremony, ACS CAN volunteers delivered post cards of thanks to legislators who have been supportive of the organization’s key legislative initiatives.   

“Holding this event at the State House sends a clear message to our elected leaders that we need to continue working to enact policies that will help us defeat this disease while also supporting those who are fighting cancer,” said Pansy Yates, lead ambassador in South Carolina for ACS CAN who is a resident of Rock Hill. “Cancer affects us all, no matter what your party affiliation might be. So, we need to work together to defeat this disease.”

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