Statement on the Death of Former Sen. Tom Casperson

LANSING, MI – A statement from Andrew Schepers, government relations director in Michigan for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) on the passing of former Sen. Tom Casperson from complications with lung cancer. 

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Sen. Tom Casperson from complications from stage 4 lung cancer. On behalf of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, we extend our deepest condolences to the Casperson family and especially to his daughter, Ashley Wakefield, who is a member of our ACS CAN Michigan team.

“During Sen. Casperson’s tenure, he was a part of the effort to expand Michigan’s Medicaid program, he supported increasing funding for tobacco prevention, was a ferocious supporter of oral chemo fairness legislation and other important issues facing cancer patients. Sen. Casperson was also the co-chair of the Michigan Cancer Caucus. 

“Tom Casperson was a resounding voice on so many issues critical to Michiganders and will be sorely missed. In honor of him and the 61,770 Michiganders who will be diagnosed with cancer this year, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network will continue to strongly advocate for public policies that reduce deaths and suffering from this disease and move us closer to a world without cancer.” 

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About ACS CAN 
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is making cancer a top priority for public officials and candidates at the federal, state and local levels. ACS CAN empowers advocates across the country to make their voices heard and influence evidence-based public policy change as well as legislative and regulatory solutions that will reduce the cancer burden. As the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN is critical to the fight for a world without cancer. For more information, visit www.fightcancer.org.