This month, the National Association for Proton Therapy brought a celebratory close to its 2024 Excellence Awards with special ceremonies in California and Florida. These events not only recognized the contributions of two congressional leaders but also served as the final chapter of a series of accolades that began earlier at the #2024NPC in Boston.
U.S. Representatives Scott Peters and John Rutherford were honored with the Champion Award for Proton Therapy Advocacy in recognition of their legislative efforts to enhance patient access to proton therapy. The ceremonies, held this week, celebrated their bipartisan commitment to addressing regulatory challenges and ensuring that innovative cancer treatments remain accessible to those in need.
The initial phase of the 2024 NAPT Excellence Awards took place at the National Proton Conference in Boston, where key figures in the medical community were recognized. Dr. William Hartsell received the Accelerator Award for his pioneering advancements in proton therapy technologies, Ron Rivera was awarded the Patient Advocate Award for his impassioned support, and Sara Grigery, RN, was honored with the Patient Care Award for her exceptional dedication to patient support.
Jennifer Maggiore, NAPT’s Executive Director, who presided over the ceremonies, highlighted the interconnectedness of these events: “This year’s series of awards—from Boston to California and Florida—showcases the comprehensive reach of our efforts. We celebrate not only the medical innovators and frontline healthcare providers but also those in legislative positions who ensure that these medical advancements achieve their potential impact.”
As the 2024 NAPT Excellence Awards conclude, the accolades reflect a unified effort across various sectors to support and advance proton therapy. The recognition of both lawmakers and healthcare professionals underlines the community’s collective goal: ensuring that every patient has access to the best care possible, including cutting-edge proton therapy.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all the awardees and participants who contributed to this year’s celebration of progress and survivorship in proton therapy. Their unwavering dedication is crucial in advancing medical technology and patient care in the realm of cancer treatment.
Read more about Excellence Award recipients past and present here.
