When I was a girl, living in Brussels, my little sister died of cancer at the age of eleven. I remember the utter sense of helplessness of my parents, but also of the medical staff who looked after her with such care. Every one of us has a similar story – or knows someone who has. The number of cancer cases are rising but we are getting better at diagnosis and treatment. Europe will take the lead in the fight against cancer.
Ursula Von der Leyen, Germany
I myself was diagnosed many years ago with breast cancer, and, unfortunately more than once. I know first-hand how working together can change things. Voices need to be louder and stronger, more persistent and sustainable so that we can make a difference.
Stella Kyriakides, Cyprus
When this happens to you as a family, you feel so helpless. Many families all over Europe experience this pain. That’s why we need to take action. Doctors and experts tell us it is possible to cure cancer. It’s a question of political will, of investment, of research capacity, and of pooling the data: this is vital in the fight against cancer on a European level.
Manfred Weber, Germany
This December, I got the news that one of my best friends had cancer. She had surgery, three times. She regretted not seeing a doctor sooner because when she finally did, it was almost too late. We really have to beat cancer so that people don’t suffer anymore.
Monika Hohlmeier, Germany
I remember one day a friend of mine called and he said: "Seán, I have the big C." "Jim", I said, "I am sorry to hear that. How long do you have to live?" He said: "At most, three months." He was gone in two.
Seán Kelly, Ireland
Tell your Story
Everybody has their own story about cancer. Thanks for following ours. You can support us here by speaking about it.
Childhood Cancer Day
On 15 February, we commemorate International Childhood Cancer Day. Sadly, 6000 children and teenagers die from cancer every year in Europe. We want to make sure that Europe unites its forces to secure our children's future by coming up with appropriate treatment that leaves no one behind.
FB LIVE: Manfred Weber & Dr Matti Aapro
EPP Group Chairman Manfred Weber and Dr Matti Aapro discussing how Europe can beat cancer and how Europeans can support the campaign.
The EPP Group wants to make the fight against cancer a top EU priority
The fight against cancer is a field where European cooperation, pooling of data and resources can make a real difference in the lives of millions of Europeans.
