Advocates for cancer patients

NEA Today, Feb 2002 by Strauss, Kandra

Two NEA members who are cancer survivors make their mark outside the classroom by educating the public about the disease, providing advice, and support to other cancer survivors, and advocating for the legal rights of cancer patients.

In 1991, Virginia middle school teacher Kathleen Barry-Rodgers lost a breast to cancer and underwent reconstructive surgery. She then chose to have symmetry surgery, but was told her insurance would not cover it due to a state law that ruled her ineligible because of her date of surgery.

After months of calling her members of Congress and state lawmakers, Barry-Rodgers received a clear answer from the Department of Health and Human Services. The federal Women's Health Resource Cancer Act does not limit its coverage based on date of surgery. Because of her efforts, it was determined that state law is not in compliance with federal law.

Barry-Rodgers and her husband, Steve, are committed to bringing both county and state law in line with federal regulations. Barry-- Rodgers, who teaches at Blue Ridge Middle School in Loudoun County, encourages other cancer patients facing insurance barriers to act.

"You can't be afraid to say, 'This is wrong,'" says Barry-Rodgers.

Educators like Barry-Rodgers often become health advocates in the wider community. This year, the NEA Health Information Network is honoring both Barry-Rodgers and Jeannie Lane of Waddy, Kentucky with the Vivian Roy Bowser Cancer Education Award for their advocacy of cancer patients' rights and for educating the community.

Lane, a kindergarten teacher at Collins Lane Elementary School and vice president of the Franklin County Education Association, is a survivor of bladder cancer. With support from her school board, she organized cancer survivor education projects featured on local cable television, participated in the Memorial/Survivor Cancer Walk, and coordinated a blood drive for teachers. Last summer, she was elected secretary of the NEA Cancer Survivors and Supporters Caucus (CSSC).

"Jeannie Lane is a constant source of inspiration to friends, family, and colleagues," says FCEA treasurer Marilyn Money.

Barry-Rodgers and Lane both acknowledge that they would not be where they are today without the support of their families, friends and communities. "I learned how many teachers are affected [by cancer] and how we can band together to support each other," says Lane.

-Kandra Strauss

NEA Health Information Network

NEA and the Texas State Teachers Association established a national endowment to honor Vivian Roy Bowser, a former Houston teacher who lost her battle with breast cancer. The Cancer Education Award is given annually to an outstanding individual or Individuals who exemplify the award's namesake through dedication to: cancer education, support or advocacy groups; educating others through the local, state or national Association; and other activities that affect NEA members or other school employees.

For information about the Vivian Roy Bowser endowment or the NEA Cancer Survivors and Supporters Caucus, contact Danielle Rentz at 202/822-7797 or visit the NEA Health Information Network Web site at www.neahin.org.