Letters: Full restoration of funding sought
I want to thank the members of the Louisiana House Appropriations Committee for taking the first step needed to restore full funding to the Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program in the FY13 state budget. The committee’s decision will save lives and preserve much-needed federal matching dollars. But the fight isn’t over yet. The Senate must still vote on this issue and final House agreement also will be needed.
As a breast cancer survivor of 10 years and a volunteer with the Komen Baton Rouge Affiliate, I care about this issue because there are so many ladies, men and families that need assistance. I receive calls from ladies who are uninsured or underinsured who need assistance for diagnostic purposes and treatment but can’t get it. Early diagnosis, proper treatment and care can save many lives. We’re in a fight for our lives.
Louisiana has one of the highest death rates from breast cancer in the country, even though the rate of diagnosis is lower than the national average. Women in our state are dying from this disease at disproportionate numbers, in part because they often don’t receive timely cancer screenings. Without access to screening, more Louisiana women will find their cancer at a later stage when it’s harder and more expensive to treat. Ultimately, more women will die.
I urge the members of the Louisiana House and Senate to fully restore funding for the Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program. Their vote could save lives and money.
Gloria Dorsey
retired purchasing agent
Baton Rouge