More drug shortages to report
 Adding to the leucovorin shortage woes, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has added fluorouracil (5-FU) to the list of drugs on short supply. 5-FU is a common backbone drug for colorectal cancer chemotherapy. And just recently, the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists reported that irinotecan was running low as well.
Naturally, these shortages are resulting in price gouging. The gray market is now selling leucovorin at a 3000 percent markup.
Tell Congress to act on this issue. Urge them to support S. 296/ H.R. 2245, the "Preserving Access to Life-Saving Medications Act." The bills would require drugmakers to provide six months of advanced notice of any discontinuance or interruption in drug production and immediate notice in the event of an unplanned interruption.
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Join us for three remarkable days in March
 Fight Colorectal Cancer invites you to join us in Washington, DC, next March 5 – 7, 2012.
You will connect with fellow advocates from around the country as you take your message to Capitol Hill that colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable – so long as it receives the full commitment of the U.S. Congress. At the end of your time with us, you will be inspired by your own power and that of the others you meet.
Don't hesitate. Register today!
New online community inspires and informs
 Patients have a new place to turn for support and friendship. Fight Colorectal Cancer has joined forces with Inspire.com to inform and connect colorectal cancer patients with one another.
At the site, you can:
- Get your questions answered
- Find a supportive group of new friends
- Laugh with others who know exactly what you're going through
- Compare side effects and learn how others cope with them
- Follow posts by Fight Colorectal Cancer's Kate Murphy and stay up to date on the latest information about your specific health concerns.
The initial survey at the free registration will tell Inspire exactly what information you are interested in. You won't have to wade through a lot of material that is not applicable to you. It's focused, it's personalized and it's up to date.
Check it out. You just might find it...inspiring!
Congressman Dent needs our help
 Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA) has introduced legislation that would direct the U.S. Postal Service to sell a stamp that would raise money for federally funded colorectal cancer research and prevention programs.
Rep. Dent's bill will ensure that even in tight fiscal times, funding for federal colorectal cancer programs can be sustained – but it needs co-sponsors to pass. Rep. Dent has asked Fight Colorectal Cancer to ask you, our advocates, to contact your representative and urge him or her to cosponsor H.R. 893. It will only take a minute of your time so take action now!
Celebrate your victories, honor your milestones
 Whether you are a patient or a loved one of a patient, your cancer journey has been filled with challenges. So when you have something to celebrate, what better way is there than to throw a bash with the people who supported you?
Fight Colorectal Cancer can help you get started. Sign up online and receive a Survivor Celebration Starter Kit, free of charge. The kit includes everything you need to kick your planning into high gear: party favors, Blue Star of Hope pins, balloons and materials to make your event fun, easy and memorable.
Let's get your party started. Sign up online today.
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