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Statement on the Death of Congressman Donald McEachin & Status of Virginians’ Access to Colorectal Cancer Screening
The American Cancer Society Joins Virginians in Mourning the Death of Rep. McEachin from Colorectal Cancer as State Considers Expanded Access to Screening
November 30, 2022
RICHMOND, VA– November 30, 2022 – A statement from Brian Donohue, Director of Government Relations at the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network in Virginia, follows on the death of Congressional Representative to Virginia’s 4th District, Donald McEachin, from his battle with colorectal cancer:
“We are incredibly saddened by the news of Representative McEachin’s passing. On behalf of the American Cancer Society and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, we express our sincere condolences to Rep. McEachin’s wife and three daughters.
“Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. McEachin was a champion of many health-related issues, including those involving clean air and access to care. We celebrate the Representative’s passion for Virginians’ health and safety, which led to his critical support for the Inflation Reduction Act, amongst other legislative efforts.
“A cancer diagnosis is all the battle that any one person should have to fight, but since assuming office in 2017—4 years after his diagnosis—Representative McEachin approached his public service with vigor, pursuing progress and equity-oriented legislation. He sought out opportunities to discuss his battle with cancer, educating on the disease and encouraging those fighting cancer. His death affirms our commitment to increasing Virginians’ access to colorectal cancer screening by advocating for legislation that eliminates out-of-pocket expenses associated with screening for colorectal cancer following a positive stool-based test.
“In 2022, an estimated 3,610 Virginians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and, by year’s end, Virginians can expect to lose 1,370 neighbors to the preventable disease. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network remains steadfast in our work to address disparities in screening that contribute to the alarming rate of colorectal cancer deaths in Virginia. We 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) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.
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