Two Palm Desert residents are in Washington today as part of a lobbying effort for cancer research funding.

Marvin Schurgin, whose wife died of lung cancer, and Beverly Cooley, a cancer survivor, are among 600 survivors and volunteers participating in the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s leadership summit and lobby day.

The group will ask Congress to protect cancer research funding and urge lawmakers to support legislation that provides cancer patients with better access to palliative care services and coordinated care.

“By making these lifesaving programs a priority, we could ensure that progress continues in the fight against cancer,” added Beverly Cooley, a longtime cancer survivor.