Sandra Cassese of Woodstock Receives Top Volunteer Award for Excellence in Cancer Advocacy Work

WASHINGTON, DC – September 11, 2017 – Sandra Cassese of Woodstock was awarded the Volunteer Award for Excellence in Advocacy by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) for her efforts to help make cancer a national priority.

Each year, a lead volunteer who has demonstrated strong, consistent leadership advocating for ACS CAN’s area of cancer-related public policy receives this award.

“Sandi has been a tireless volunteer and dedicated champion of ACS CAN’s legislative priorities,” said Chris Hansen, president of ACS CAN. “Because of Sandi’s willingness to take action in the fight against cancer, we are making great strides towards implementing meaningful legislation and saving more lives from the disease in New York State and nationally.”

ACS CAN is the largest national cancer advocacy organization and supports evidence-based policy and legislative solutions designed to bring an end to cancer. Sandi is a lead volunteer for ACS CAN in New York State, leading grassroots activities in the community and attending meetings with local lawmakers on ACS CAN’s priority legislative issues.

Sandi currently serves as treasurer of the ACS CAN Board of Directors. Her son-in-law Jon lost his battle with cancer in 2015. Cassese is currently Vice President for Oncology Services at Health Quest Hospital System.

“Sandi is an inspiration to us all,” said Julie Hart, ACS CAN New York government relations director. “When trying to reach goals, large and small, Sandi always puts her heart and soul into each aspect.”

The award was presented on September 10 in Washington, D.C., as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. More than 700 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones traveled to the nation’s capital to meet with their elected officials and urge them to make cancer a national priority.

On behalf of all families touched by cancer, ACS CAN thanks Sandi for her advocacy efforts supporting meaningful legislation that helps eliminate the burden of cancer in New York State and across the country.