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Local Cancer Orgs. Receive $70K from License Plate

NEWTON, Mass. (January 25, 2007)—On January 25, 2004, Michael Zuker of Newton lost his battle with lung cancer at age 53. Today, on the third anniversary of his death, his family will honor him by presenting nearly $70,000 to five local cancer organizations—the first proceeds from sales of the Conquer Cancer license plate.

“The journey that our family traveled during Michael’s illness and after his death made us committed to be part of the fight against cancer,” said Susan Zuker, Michael’s wife and founder of the Conquer Cancer Coalition of Massachusetts. “It’s a blessing to be able to turn this day that was marked by sorrow into one of giving. I know Michael is smiling down.”

The license plates generate an ongoing source of funding for the four Coalition member organizations: The Wellness Community–Greater Boston, The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center, Cancer Prevention at Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Channing Laboratory, and the New England Coalition for Cancer Survivorship. In addition, the Coalition will award an annual grant to smaller cancer organizations. This year’s recipient is the Cancer House of Hope, which has two locations in western Massachusetts.

“We are so proud of Susan and her family for their passion and dedication,” said Ronald Lipof, president and CEO of The Wellness Community–Greater Boston.

Susan Zuker and her two sons will present checks to each organization during a ceremony today at 10 a.m., held at the Wellness Community in Newton.

“This license plate is a lasting tribute to our dad and all those who courageously battle this disease,” said Matthew Zuker, Michael and Susan’s son.

The Conquer Cancer Coalition receives $28 from each initial $40 license plate purchase, with the remaining $12 retained by the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). For each subsequent two-year renewal, the entire $40 will go directly to the Coalition.

Conquer Cancer license plates are available at any of the 35 RMV branches across the state or online at www.mass.gov/rmf/express/plates.htm.

The mission of the Conquer Cancer Coalition of Massachusetts is to provide a continuous source of funding for local nonprofit cancer organizations through sales of a specialty license plate. The Coalition member organizations encompass a wide range of cancer-related services, including education and support, compassionate care training, prevention research and awareness, and survivor advocacy. For more information visit www.conquercancer.org or call 617-796-9191.

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