The mission of THE MARCH is to obtain more federal funding for cancer research, increase access to quality cancer care for all Americans, and a renewed commitment from elected officials to conquer cancer.

Ellen Stovall, president of THE MARCH, said recent news about cancer-fighting drugs such as tamoxifen, used in preventing breast cancer, and two drugs found to kill cancer tumors in mice, emphasizes the need for more funds for research and greater access to clinical trials for people diagnosed with cancer. Stovall, a 26-year cancer survivor, is also executive director of the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship.

The start of THE MARCH
THE MARCH was born in April 1997, when a small group of cancer survivors discussed on CNN's "Larry King Live" the need to galvanize public and political support in the war against cancer. A march was suggested, and the idea took hold. Activities are being planned in Washington, DC and in local communities to demonstrate the grassroots support for cancer as a top health priority nationwide. The events will be more of a rally than a march. The term "march" is used in the sense of a March on Washington, not in the literal sense of a march down Pennsylvania Avenue.

As part of THE MARCH, task forces in communities across the country are recruiting individuals, cancer and health organizations, peer-support groups, and anyone willing to raise public awareness and create a national urgency to make cancer the top health-care priority. A placard campaign will provide a chance to publicly recognize cancer survivors and those who have died.

On Sept. 25, there will be a candlelight vigil at the Lincoln Memorial to honor the memory of those lost to cancer as well as to celebrate the lives of survivors. As part of the vigil, there will be a "Roll Call" of names and photos of cancer victims. Education and public awareness activities will get under way the next morning, followed by a noon rally on The Mall near the US Capitol. The weekend concludes with a benefit concert at Constitution Hall.

For more information, call 1-877-THE-MARCH or 1-877-843-6272; fax 202-861-4794; e-mail info@themarch.org; or the website

.