Peter Schiefke, the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) and Conservative MP Dan Albas announced they will co-chair a new cross-party caucus regarding cancer.

The aim is to strengthen national efforts to change the future of cancer care in Canada. The pair will use their political platform to support the millions of people affected by cancer across the country.

"I know how a cancer diagnosis changes a life. The effective treatments I received following my diagnosis of testicular cancer in 2011 were the result of significant advances in cancer research," said Schiefke. 

"This research must continue to advance if we hope to develop even better treatments and eventually find a cure," he added.

Schiefke participated in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Relay for Life in Pincourt as Houourary President on June 10. This year's fundraising event for cancer research raised $143,000. 

"I know all too well the devastating impact cancer care has on families as a member of my family suffers from breast cancer," said Dan Albas, MP for  Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola in British Columbia.

"The strength shown by this person I love inspires me every day. I am also committed to making a difference so that we can one day be cancer-free," said Albas.

Cancer is the leading cause of death among Canadians. The Canadian Cancer Society estimates two out of five people will be affected by cancer in their lifetime. The prevalence of cancer is also on the rise which is a cause for concern given the growth and aging of the population.

This cross-partisan cancer caucus is being launched at a pivotal time when, "We need to ensure all Canadians have access to cancer care and support services when they need them, without having to worry about potential delays," said Schiefke and Albas.

They aim to move the issue forward on Parliament Hill and in the rest of the country by cooperating with experts, front-line healthcare providers and Canadians affected by cancer, in the hope of moving closer to eradicating cancer in Canada and giving hope to millions.