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Paid leave would give patients peace of mind
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A new survey from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network makes clear that anyone who’s experienced cancer already knows we need a national paid-leave program.
The poll found 74% of cancer patients report having to miss work to undergo treatment; 69% of whom missed more than four weeks. That’s a lot of time away from work, and for at least one-third of those people it’s some or all unpaid time off. Without paid time off, too many cancer patients and their caregivers struggle to pay bills that keep coming, even if the paychecks have stopped.
As a cancer survivor, I know what a challenge it can be. That’s why I was so glad to hear a national paid family and medical leave program was included in the Build Back Better bill that passed the U.S. House. It’s well beyond time all working Americans get some peace of mind when it comes to dealing with a serious medical diagnosis.
The U.S. Senate, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth, needs to make sure this program remains intact when they consider the bill in the coming weeks. Patients and their families deserve a system that helps them balance their physical health with their financial responsibilities, especially for those who are already struggling to make ends meet.
On behalf of myself and all cancer patients, I hope the Senate does the right thing and passes paid leave into law. Millions of patients can wait no longer.
Maggie Powell, Waukegan, Illinois vice-state lead advocate, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network