CLEARFIELD – In order to raise awareness and funding for cancer research, the Clearfield County Commissioners have proclaimed May 13 “LIVESTRONG Day.”
Cancer Survivor John Crissman said the Lance Armstrong Foundation raises a lot of funding for cancer research, and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center is among the prime benefactors of his foundation.
“They’re on the cutting edge and really enthusiastic about it,” he said. “I would have never survived 10 years ago.”
Crissman said cancer is the leading cause of death in Pennsylvania and is the fifth highest for cancer incidents among the 50 states.
“Clearfield County has a project 470 cases of cancer and 190 deaths,” he said.
Crissman said cancer is a “mindset battle.”
“You have to really fight and make it your priority,” he said. “You need a great attitude.”
As a result, Crissman has planted trees in Elliott’s Park along River Road in Clearfield.
“I’ve called it a tree of hope,” he said.
Commissioner Mark McCracken said Crissman’s work has been tremendous.
“If your work is any indication, you’ll be here a long time,” said Commissioner Joan Robinson McMillen.
