As a northern Kentucky resident, and the daughter of someone who died from lung cancer after a lifetime of smoking, I joined advocates, survivors, caregivers and community partners from across Kentucky for my first ACS-CAN Cancer Awareness Day at the Capitol. We came together with a shared purpose: reducing Kentucky’s cancer burden, especially lung cancer, which remains the state’s leading cause of cancer death.

This year’s advocacy focused on three key bills: two supporting funding for smoking prevention and cessation, and one opposing expanded cigar and pipe smoking in public places. Together, these efforts reflect a coordinated approach to reducing tobacco use, expanding access to education and cessation resources, and protecting future generations from preventable disease.

Throughout the day, I met with legislators alongside a group of northern Kentucky advocates to share why these issues matter. We spoke about loved ones lost to lung cancer, parents trying to quit and teens vaping in school bathrooms. These conversations highlighted both the human and economic impact of tobacco-related illness and reinforced the importance of investing in prevention.

What struck me most was how open lawmakers were to hearing from community members. They asked thoughtful questions about environmental risks in northern Kentucky, listened to Dr. Michael Gieske’s work advancing smoke-free laws and heard powerful survivor stories from Joe and Marsha Geraci. These moments made clear that policy change is driven not only by data, but by connection.

As I left Frankfort, I felt energized and hopeful. The northern Kentucky counties are part of the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center’s catchment area, making it essential that we support prevention and early detection efforts across this region. While the challenges are real, so is the momentum for change.

My first Cancer Awareness Day was more than an event. It was an invitation to stay engaged, keep showing up and continue building partnerships that advance cancer prevention and early detection.

As Associate Director for Community Outreach & Engagement, I encourage YOU to get involved in future policy efforts. To learn more, please attend our upcoming April ACS-CAN session.