CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) sponsored a resolution to recognize Oct. 13 as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Illinois.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, other than skin cancer. Thousands of families across Illinois are affected by metastatic cancer, also known as Stage IV or advanced breast cancer.

“This day is designated to increase awareness of the disease,” Bennett said. “Despite the advances made in cancer treatment, metastatic breast cancer still remains incurable.”

Metastatic breast cancer is the most advanced stage of breast cancer occurring when it has spread beyond the breast and to another part of the body — typically the bones, liver or brain. In Illinois alone, it is expected that 11,560 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019, according to the American Cancer Society.

“Metastatic breast cancer unfortunately cuts the lives of too many people in Illinois and leaves long term effects on families,” Bennett said. “Today we have the opportunity to shed light on the devastation cancer brings to communities throughout the state. I encourage residents to work with their health care providers to create a health plan and get screened regularly.”

For additional information, Bennett urges residents to contact Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at 800-232-4636.

CHAMPAIGN – In an effort to support domestic violence victims in Champaign, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) has designated his district office for residents to drop off used cell phones.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Illinois and across the nation. To continue his advocacy of women and children’s rights and raise awareness of domestic violence, Bennett has partnered with Courage Connection in Champaign to receive cell phones, chargers, and other phone accessories to be collected throughout the month of October. Donated cell phones are given to people dealing with domestic abuse and are used as emergency 911 phones.

“Domestic violence is a community issue, and these shelters protect and support individuals trying to return to safety and stability while they recover from violence that can upend every part of their lives,” Bennett said. “Efforts like this are a way we can all support them.”

Bennett sought out other partners in the community to volunteer their offices as drop off locations. In addition to Bennett’s office, State Representative Carol Ammons, Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen, Mayor Diane Marlin and Mayor Charles Smith will serve as drop off locations. Courage Connection will also be available to take donations.

“Cell phones have become essential in modern society and these individuals will benefit from your donations,” Bennett said. “Help a family have a sense of security and stay connected. Donate today, if you can.”

Bennett urges residents with questions or concerns to contact his district office at 217-355-5252 or visit www.SenatorBennett.com.

CHICAGO – The Illinois Environmental Council presented State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) with the Milestone Achievement Award at their annual leadership program for his efforts in passing historic coal ash regulations into law this year.

Bennett is a strong advocate for environmental issues and worked closely with the Illinois Environmental Council this spring to ensure tougher regulations on coal ash waste.

“This situation affects the entire state, but really hits close to home considering the potential risk the ash pits pose to the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River,” Bennett said. “It was tremendous what we were able to accomplish this spring on a bipartisan basis and I will continue to fight to clean up toxic coal ash stored in unlined pits throughout Illinois.”

The Illinois Environmental Council also recognized State Reps. Carol Ammons (D-Urbana) and Mike Marron (R-Fithian), who carried Senate Bill 9 in the Illinois House.

The legislation was Senate Bill 9. It is effective immediately.