Central ND News

Dickinson State University student Eniola Soetan traveled to Washington, D.C., last week to advocate for affordable health care and continued federal funding for cancer research. Soetan, who is studying exercise science, represented both DSU and North Dakota in meetings with Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer as well as Representative Julie Fedorchak.

During her visit, Soetan urged Congress to extend federal health care tax credits that currently help nearly 39,000 North Dakotans access insurance through healthcare.gov. She warned that if the credits expire at the end of the year, many families could lose their health coverage. “As a student preparing for a career in health care, I know how important it is for people to have access to affordable coverage,” Soetan said. “I was proud to represent Dickinson State and share why these issues matter to so many North Dakotans.”

Soetan also highlighted the significance of maintaining federal funding for cancer research and prevention efforts as lawmakers approach a budget deadline. She pointed out that investments in this area have led to a 34% decrease in cancer mortality rates over the past three decades. Proposed cuts to agencies such as the National Institutes of Health and National Cancer Institute have been rejected by congressional committees, but Soetan cautioned that any reductions could threaten future progress.

Another topic discussed was the bipartisan Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act (H.R. 842). This legislation recently passed unanimously through the House Ways and Means Committee and would allow Medicare coverage for new blood tests capable of detecting multiple cancers after approval from the Food and Drug Administration.

In addition to meeting with lawmakers, Soetan took part in the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s Lights of Hope event at Constitution Gardens. The event featured thousands of illuminated bags honoring those affected by cancer. “It was incredible to see such a powerful display on a national scale,” she said.

Soetan plans to continue her advocacy locally by organizing a community Lights of Hope display at King Pavilion on October 14. Leading up to the event, she will distribute bags for community members to decorate in memory or honor of loved ones impacted by cancer.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to advocate in Washington and even more excited to continue this work in my own community,” Soetan said. “Cancer has touched so many lives, and it means a lot to be part of something that brings people together in hope.”