March Advocate Spotlight: Gus Robertson

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got connected with the Cancer Support Community.

I am a student attending the George Washington University in Washington, D.C., majoring in Political Science and minoring in Criminal Justice and Emergency Health Services.

I got connected to the Cancer Support Community through information I found online and my experiences with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Did you have experience with advocacy in any capacity before joining CSC?

I did have some experience with advocacy. I was the 2017 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Student of the Year. I raised over $102,000 for blood cancer and got to allocate a grant to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and a grant to a researcher at Stanford Medical School. It was a very rewarding experience, and it involved hard work in writing letters to friends, family, and acquaintances. I also tried to use the campaign to build awareness around blood cancer in my high school by doing direct fundraisers in partnership with my high school.

Is there one issue you are particularly passionate about?

I am very passionate about health care cost reduction. I grew up with a mother who had incurable cancer, so I understand how critical it is for every American to be entitled to basic health care. If it weren't for the many clinical trials my mom was able to participate in, our health care costs would have soared. Figuring out how to lower health care costs will benefit millions of Americans who cannot currently afford basic health care.

What is one tip or piece of advice you’d like to share with others who are interested in becoming an advocate?

If you are interested in becoming an advocate, I would say don't be shy about it. Be aggressive in your message and try to think outside the box in how you advocate.

Tell us something fun about yourself—any hobbies, interests, or fun facts?

I enjoy scuba diving, volunteering as an EMT, and spending time with friends in my free time. I also enjoy exploring new areas of Washington, D.C., and taking walks along the National Mall.

If you are interested in learning more about policy, advocacy, and ways to get involved, sign up to be a member of the Grassroots Network!