While Democrats prepare to descend on Charlotte for their party's convention, local cancer patients are preparing contingency plans to receive critical medical treatments. Local Charlotte news station WBTV reports the Democratic convention will force a major cancer treatment center to close.
On Tuesday, September 4th, the DNC will officially kick off. Tens of thousands from around the world will head to the Queen City and there's no secret, the convention will have a major impact locally, including on people battling cancer.
Matthews resident Sue Falco is fighting stage four colon cancer, and says the DNC will force a major cancer treatment center to close. Carolina's Hematology Oncology Associates on South Tryon will close for four days during the DNC, because of security and traffic concerns.
Just a few weeks ago, the pro-Obama super PAC Priorities USA launched a controversial ad that linked Republican nominee Mitt Romney to the death of a woman from cancer. The ad, which was widely denounced by Democrats and Republicans alike, now appears ironic since Obama’s convention will displace cancer patients.
The Obama campaign claimed no knowledge or involvement with the Priorities USA ad. However, Obama deputy campaign manager Stephanie Cutter was on a conference call with its subject, Joe Soptic, in May. After avoiding questions from the White House press corps for months, Obama declined an opportunity to denounce the ad when he finally appeared at a surprise press briefing on August 20.
Democrats are arranging transportation for those who wish to view Obama’s speech. It is unclear if Democrats will also arrange transportation for the displaced cancer patients receiving critical treatments for their life-threatening conditions.