Dear Editor:
On behalf of the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research, I wish to send a heartfelt thank you to the thousands of New Jersey citizens who have purchased specialized Conquer Cancer License plate. In just four years, the sales of these license plates have generated more than $1.3 million, all dedicated to supporting cancer research. Because the development cost for the plates was underwritten by New Jersey pharmaceutical company Schering Plough, more than 90 percent of the purchase price of each plate goes directly to cancer research.
These purchases have made a significant difference in our fight against cancer in three ways. As the second most popular specialized plate in the State, more than 27,000 New Jersey drivers demonstrate their commitment to conquering cancer on a daily basis and raise visibility on the need for research. Recently, license plate revenues have funded half of the “seed” grants awarded by the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research to New Jersey based researchers. These talented scientists have, in turn, used these funds to leverage $4.50 in national funds for every State dollar provided. This funding, warded to our top research and medical facilities, throughout the State, has contributed not only to New Jersey’s prominence in the fight against cancer but also to strengthening our scientific infrastructure.
For years, New Jersey has consistently ranked among the 10 highest states for cancer incidence and mortality. The economic costs of cancer are enormous. Recent analysis indicates that all cancer-related costs to New Jersey are estimated at over $5 billion per annum. Needless to say, the burden from human suffering and sacrifice cannot be measured. However, it is for these reasons that the Commisson is dedicated to carrying out its mandate despite its budget crises.
Again, thank you, all of you, who help the NJCCR and New Jersey cancer researchers in our efforts to eradicate cancer. I encourage your readers, especially those whose lives and families have been touched by cancer, to join with me in keeping our message of hope in the public eye. Buy a Conquer Cancer New Jersey license plate.
Thanks a million ($1.3 million)!!
Paul E. Wallner, D.O.
State of NJ Commission on Cancer Research
Commission Chairman