The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network recently honored Congressman Charlie Dent, R-15th, Sept. 10 with its 2013 National Distinguished Advocacy Award for his dedicated leadership in advancing the effort to fight cancer.

Christopher W. Hansen, president of the group, wrote Dent he was receiving recognition because of his ". . . extraordinary efforts to achieve progress in the fight against cancer."

Hansen cited the Congressman's efforts in the area of preventing colon cancer by noting his introduction of HR 1070, the removing barriers to colorectal cancer screening act, his efforts to reduce the incidence of skin cancer and Dent's "...consistent and valuable support for cancer research funded by the National Institutes of Health..."

Dent was moved by the organization's decision to honor him.

"I offer my humblest thanks to the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network for this award," Dent said. "I lost my father-in-law and my brother-in-law to cancer.

"I've seen the horrible impact that the disease has on families and I've also witnessed the indomitable courage of those who fight the disease with every ounce of their strength.

"Patients, medical workers and researchers are on the front line of fighting this disease. I want them to know I'm here to support their efforts."