American Cancer Society Honors State Senator

The American Cancer Society has honored NH State Senator Bob Odell (R-Lempster) as the "Lawmaker of the Year for New Hampshire.

"Senator Odell has consistently demonstrated leadership to promote policies that help prevent cancer and support New Hampshire citizens and families living with this disease, said Peter Ames, state director of government relations and advocacy for the American Cancer Society. "Cancer survivors have benefited from the efforts of Senator Odell and we are
thrilled to honor his work with this award.

Senator Odell has led the fight to ensure the New Hampshire Cancer Plan is sufficiently funded, and he was a tireless advocate for the program when it faced cuts earlier this year. He has also been a leader in protecting children from tobacco by promoting prevention policies and was a leader in the efforts to make NH's restaurants smoke free.

"I am honored to receive this recognition from the American Cancer Society and will continue to fight on behalf of our citizens facing this disease. This is an issue that touches all of us, most recently my immediate family, and our government should be an active partner in the fight against cancer, said Senator Odell.

Past award recipients include State Senator David Gottesman (D-Nashua) and Representative Sheila Francoeur (R-Hampton), both of whom led efforts to take New Hampshire smoke free. Senator Odell will be recognized at the
American Cancer Society's annual awards celebration on Tuesday, November 18 in Manchester.

Additionally, the American Cancer Society announced that Cheryl Cutting of Sanbornton has been named the "Advocate of the Year. Cutting has been involved in campaigns to secure and protect funding for the NH Cancer Plan, to pass tobacco prevention and control legislation, and to ensure all New Hampshire citizens have access to health care services.

"Cheryl's passion and dedication to the mission have inspired all around her. She is a tireless voice for cancer survivors and caregivers and her ability to articulate the need for government leadership on cancer sets her apart as a top advocate. Cheryl's active citizenship has given a stronger voice to all New Hampshire families facing this disease, said Katherine Klem, Grassroots Advocacy Coordinator for the American Cancer Society.