12/1/2009 - Ermilo Barrera, Jr., MD, was honored with the 2009 St. George Medal, the American Cancer Society’s highest distinction for volunteer service. A 22-year American Cancer Society volunteer, Dr. Barrera is a NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) surgeon who was a driving force behind the successful Smoke-Free Chicago and Illinois campaigns. Dr. Barrera was recognized for his extraordinary service and long-time commitment to furthering the mission and impact of the American Cancer Society. A former president of the Board of Director’s for the Society’s Illinois Division and a member of the National Board of Directors, Dr. Barrera is thrilled to be returning to service on the National Board in January 2010 and continue his work to advance the Society’s broad advocacy efforts. â€I feel in my heart this is an important thing to do,†Dr. Barrera said. â€In my work as a surgeon I help people on an individual basis, but through the American Cancer Society we are helping people all over the world. This is very much a team effort through the many dedicated volunteers and American Cancer Society staff.†Dr. Barrera’s volunteerism has included lobbying in Washington D.C. for increased funding for cancer research as well as initiating several domestic and international strategies and programs. He was involved with former NorthShore physician Steven Sener, MD, in an unprecedented â€Million Mammogram Project†in China designed to maximize and multiply sharing of cancer research findings. He is quick to credit several key NorthShore physicians who have served as positive mentors with their own volunteer leadership at the American Cancer Society including Edward Scanlon, MD, David P. Winchester, MD and Dr. Sener who were previous St. George Medal winners. â€I am grateful for their influences on my career, and the way I care for patients,†he said. â€Dr. Barrera is a well-known and highly respected Society leader who is most deserving of our most prestigious volunteer honor,†said Steven M. Derks, chief executive office of the American Cancer Society’s Illinois Division. â€He is passionate about the cancer fight and has worked tirelessly for more than two decades to support the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives.â€
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