Lynn woman awarded for dedication to group’s cause

LYNN – Lynn resident Valerie Deland-Thurston was recently awarded the American Cancer Society’s New England Division 2007 Excellence in Advocacy Award for her dedication and support to the society’s advocacy mission.As a Society Ambassador, Deland-Thurston has shared her personal connection to cancer with elected officials at the local, state and federal levels.In 2006, she participated in the Society’s Celebration on the Hill, where roughly 10,000 advocates traveled to Capital Hill to ask Congress for support in cancer related legislation and for funding.Deland-Thurston has continued to share her message with Lynn residents with the hope that others will become involved.In addition, she has served as a Relay For Life advocacy chair, has raised money for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) and has successfully advocated for cancer related legislation.Korinne Moore, the society’s Massachusetts Grassroots Advocacy Coordinator, presented Deland-Thurston and six other volunteers during a volunteer recognition event.The event honored nearly 20 American Cancer Society volunteers from the Greater Boston area.For more information or for volunteer opportunities, call 800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.