Michael Holtz Accepts National Volunteer Leadership Award for Excellence in Cancer Advocacy Work

KNOXVILLE, TN –  Michael Holtz was awarded the Volunteer Award for Excellence in Advocacy by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in recognition of his efforts to help make cancer a national priority. 

"Michael is widely regarded by his ACS CAN peers as an extremely effective and successful cancer advocate," said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. "At every turn of a legislative campaign, Michael is ready and willing to share his personal cancer journey to compel elected officials to listen to the perspective of patients and survivors. Time and again, he demonstrates an unrelenting commitment to achieving a world with less cancer, and for that ACS CAN is honored to recognize and celebrate him." 

Each year, a lead volunteer who has consistently demonstrated strong leadership while advocating in areas of cancer-related public policy receives this award. 
    
"There are not enough words to share the impact Michael has had and will have for those who have been impacted by cancer in Tennessee and across the country," said Emily Ogden, government relations director, ACS CAN. "As a cancer survivor himself, Michael brings an immense amount of passion to everything he does for ACS CAN, whether that is meeting with elected officials, moderating educations programs, raising funds for ACS CAN, recruiting other ACS CAN volunteers or sharing his story with the media to raise public awareness. 

The award was presented on Sept. 26 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Nearly 700 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones will meet virtually with their elected officials on Sept. 28 to urge them to make cancer a national priority.

On behalf of all families touched by cancer, ACS CAN thanks Michael Holtz for his incredible advocacy efforts that helps eliminate the burden of cancer in Tennessee and across the country.  

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About ACS CAN at 20 
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 saves lives. 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 made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we're more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.