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ATLANTA, May 22, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Wednesday, May 22, 2013, the American Cancer Society will celebrate 100 years of saving lives and creating more birthdays.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130522/DC19029)

"The American Cancer Society has played a role in nearly every cancer research breakthrough in recent history," says Dr. John Seffrin, chief executive officer of the American Cancer Society. "Since 1913, we've helped save nearly 1.2 million lives. As the official sponsor of birthdays, we know how important each and every birthday is."

The Society has contributed to a 20 percent decline in cancer death rates in the United States since the early 1990s. Today, 2 out of 3 people diagnosed with cancer are surviving for at least five years. As a result, more than 400 people a day are celebrating birthdays that would have otherwise been lost to the disease. 

To recognize the tremendous efforts made over the past century, the American Cancer Society is featuring 100 Stories of Hope. From researchers seeking cures, to volunteers going above and beyond in their communities – we're featuring 100 stories from everyday people who are taking action to help us finish the fight. We'll continue to post one story a day on http://www.cancer.org/fight/100-stories. Read their stories and learn the different ways you can get involved and make a difference in the fight against cancer.

SOURCE American Cancer Society