Emotional Moments and the Fight Against Cancer

The **United States** is a federal republic and a global superpower, playing a leading role in economics, military strength, technology, and governance. It is a nation of approximately 348 million people as of 2025, characterized by its diverse population and dynamic economy[8][6]. Founded in 1776 following independence from British rule, the U.S. rapidly evolved into a major world power, especially after World War II, when its technological and economic investments solidified its global dominance[4]. Today, it remains the world’s preeminent military power, with 76% of Americans recognizing this status, while about half view it as the leading economic power globally, though China is seen as a rising competitor[2][3]. The U.S. government operates through a complex system that manages federal finances, taxation, social welfare programs, and trade policies. Recent legislative changes, such as the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act, have shaped the tax landscape to influence economic growth, labor markets, and federal revenue[1]. Despite challenges like rising federal deficits projected to reach 6.9% of GDP by 2027, consumer spending remains resilient, and business investment is expected to grow steadily in 2025[5]. In governance, the U.S. is rated "Free" with a score of 84/100 by Freedom House, though concerns about democratic erosion and partisan conflicts persist[6]. Public trust and satisfaction with government services fluctuate, reflecting ongoing debates about policy effectiveness and institutional competence[7]. Technologically, the U.S. maintains a critical edge, underpinning its economic and geopolitical power. Experts warn, however, that technological dominance is not guaranteed indefinitely, emphasizing the need for adaptive policies and international cooperation to sustain leadership in innovation and global affairs[4]. Overall, the United States remains a pivotal force in global business, technology, and politics, balancing historic strengths with contemporary challenges in

The **American Cancer Society (ACS)** is a leading nationwide voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer by preventing it, saving lives, and reducing suffering through research, education, advocacy, and service. Founded on May 22, 1913, by ten physicians and five businessmen in New York City as the "American Society for the Control of Cancer," it was established to break the stigma and ignorance surrounding cancer, a disease then shrouded in fear and silence[1][2][7]. At its inception, the ACS prioritized public education, launching nationwide campaigns including articles in popular magazines and professional journals, a monthly bulletin called *Campaign Notes*, and even a silent film to encourage early diagnosis[1][3]. Early funding came from philanthropists like John D. Rockefeller Jr., enabling the organization to grow slowly but steadily[2]. A major shift occurred in 1945 when Mary Lasker, a prominent philanthropist, influenced the ACS to focus heavily on cancer research. This led to a reorganization and a renaming to the American Cancer Society, accompanied by significant fundraising efforts—over $4 million raised in the first campaign—ushering in a new era of scientific discovery[4]. The ACS has since been instrumental in many key medical advances, including supporting the development of chemotherapy, promoting the Pap test which reduced cervical cancer deaths by 70%, confirming the link between smoking and lung cancer that led to major declines in smoking rates, and proving mammography’s efficacy in early breast cancer detection[5]. Today, ACS operates through 13 division offices, more than 3,000 community offices, and a volunteer network exceeding 2 million people nationwide[7]. Its innovation arm, BrightEdge, launched in 2019, exemplifies its commitment to leveraging venture capital and impact investments to accelerate cancer research and technology[5]. The ACS remains a vital force in cancer prevention, treatment innovation, and policy advocacy, continuously advancing the fight against cancer over its 110+ year histor