Mary Lynne Capilouto Joins Group Urging Kentucky Taxpayers to 'Check it out' for Breast Cancer Research
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 23, 2012) ― For the second year, Rep. Joni Jenkins, (D-Louisville), is putting out the call for Kentucky taxpayers to “check it out” to support breast cancer research in Kentucky.
Rep. Jenkins and First Lady Jane Beshear joined with Kentucky House Majority Leader Rocky Adkins, Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes, former State Auditor Crit Luallen, and other officials and health experts including Dr. Mary Lynne Capilouto at a news conference Jan. 18, to show their support for the effort.
Wearing pink, the international symbol of breast cancer awareness, the powerful group urged Kentuckians to “check” box 36 on their 2011 income tax returns as an easy way to donate funds to help eradicate the disease.
In 2005, Rep. Jenkins sponsored House Bill 7, which created the Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund to support and advance breast cancer research, education, treatment, screening and awareness efforts in the state. The trust fund is managed by a board of directors that awards competitive grants to eligible organizations providing breast cancer programs and services.
“While great advances have been made in breast cancer research, too many women still succumb to this terrible disease,” said Rep. Jenkins. “Kentucky taxpayers can help do even more by simply checking the box on line 36 of their tax returns to contribute to the Breast Cancer Trust Fund.”
Since 2005, more than 27,000 Kentuckians have donated to the fund raising more than $270,000. Approximately 150 more Kentuckians increased their contributions to the fund by $52,000 last year.
Jane Beshear continues the tradition of Kentucky’s First Ladies by supporting breast cancer and is a strong proponent of the Breast Cancer research and Education Trust Fund. According to the Kentucky Cancer Registry, almost 600 women have lost their lives to breast cancer in Kentucky in the last year.
“Breast cancer still remains one of the leading causes of death among Kentucky women,” said Beshear. “We must do whatever we can to raise awareness and support research for better treatment, prevention and to find a cure. Checking off line 36 on your tax return is a simple way to help join in this important fight.”
Rep. Adkins, a 16-year cancer survivor, spoke of his advocacy for breast cancer research. “I know what it’s like to get that diagnosis and the fear and uncertainty that comes with it. Contributing to the trust fund is an easy way for Kentuckians to help find cures and educate people about cancer prevention and treatment throughout the Commonwealth.”
"The University of Kentucky is making revolutionary strides in advancing breast cancer research, education, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care; the support we receive from various programs and initiatives is critical to fulfilling our promise," said Dr. Mary Lynne Capilouto, dentist and wife of University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto. "While the challenges we face are complex, raising the necessary money and support is as easy as checking a box on your tax return."
According to the Kentucky Revenue Cabinet, approximately 1.8 Kentuckians file their income tax returns each year and said if even one half of those donated $10 to the fund each year, $9.1 million could be raised.