Fight CRC goes big for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Springfield-based Fight Colorectal Cancer has a lot in store for a newly designated month raising awareness of the disease.

The nonprofit is running myriad awareness campaigns for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, as declared by President Joe Biden, according to a news release.

“We relentlessly raise awareness each March, but this year it’s different because there are even more lives at stake if we don’t act now,” Fight CRC President Anjee Davis said in the release. “We need scientists, health care providers and patient organizations to push for more research. The data compels us to find a way to chart a new course because young lives are counting on us to find answers.”

Fight CRC is partnering tonight with the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers for the team's annual Colon Cancer Awareness Night. The Springfield nonprofit is slated to be at Denver's capitol today to celebrate legislative successes and push for more.

The nonprofit's awareness campaign moves March 13-18 to Washington, D.C., for United in Blue, during which more than 27,000 flags will be installed at the National Mall to represent people under the age of 50 projected to be diagnosed with CRC in 2030, according to the release. A rally also is planned with members of Congress in attendance.

Fight CRC on March 17 is encouraging advocates to participate in Call-on Congress, a movement intended to require the National Cancer Institute to develop a strategic plan for colorectal cancer, create a specific research program within the Department of Defense and increase funding for screening and research.

Donations also are being accepted.