New Jersey State Senator Anthony Bucco’s remarkable journey from childhood cancer survivor to influential advocate for pediatric cancer research culminated in his recent participation in the Biden Cancer Moonshot event at the White House.
Diagnosed with thyroid cancer at age 8, Bucco has since endured the significant after-effects of early radiation treatments while steadfastly avoiding exploiting his cancer history for political gain.
Determined to ensure that future generations do not endure the same struggles he faced, Bucco has actively engaged with various governmental and nonprofit organizations dedicated to childhood cancer research.
His advocacy led to an invitation to speak at the roundtable event, where he emphasized the nonpartisan nature of the fight against cancer, stating, Cancer doesn’t care which party you belong to.
At the roundtable, Bucco highlighted recent progress in New Jersey, including bipartisan legislation that established the New Jersey Pediatric Cancer Research Fund, securing $5 million from the state budget.
He expressed hope that Washington leaders could replicate New Jersey’s collaborative efforts in addressing pediatric cancer funding.
Bucco shared the personal toll of his cancer treatment, including long-term complications such as the loss of a vocal cord and serious cardiovascular issues linked to radiation.
Despite these challenges, he remains dedicated to using his platform to push for more funding and research in the field, underscoring the importance of understanding the long-term impacts of childhood cancer treatments.
Alongside Bucco, Long Hill Committeewoman Aubrey Reichard-Eline and her daughter Grace, a brain cancer survivor, also represented New Jersey at the event.
Grace’s advocacy and experiences, including her invitation to the 2019 State of the Union Address, exemplify the impact of personal stories in the fight against childhood cancer.
Bucco’s commitment to advocacy reflects a broader goal: to ensure that future generations have access to better treatments and outcomes.
If I can use my story to get the funding and research done, I will, he affirmed, reiterating the need for continued momentum in this crucial fight.