Audesse Award

In 1993, the Massachusetts Society of Clinical Oncologists established an award to recognize outstanding efforts to educate the public about cancer prevention and to enhance and protect the quality of cancer care in Massachusetts. The award was named in honor of Nancy Achin (Sullivan) Audesse, who as State Senator from Lowell, sponsored the legislation mandating that Massachusetts insurers pay for off-label uses of cancer therapy drugs. Ms. Audesse’s clear and unflagging leadership was crucial in successfully passing Senate Bill 1772, Chapter 404. Senator Audesse’s promotion of the bill secured its passage at a time when the climate for new mandates in health insurance coverage was extremely unwelcome. The bill generated intense interest among many groups, and it is a credit to Senator Audesse’s involvement in the process that the original wording of the bill remained virtually intact. Its passage will beneficially impact the quality of life for cancer patients far into the future. 

Nancy Achin Audesse served the patients of Massachusetts in many ways, including her involvement with many non-profit organizations and donating her time and expertise on behalf of cancer patients and their families. 

The award consists of a honorarium, a commemorative plaque, and attendance at the Annual Meeting in the year the award is conferred.