A lifelong Iowan, Gail worked as a teacher for more than three decades before retiring in 2008. Two years later, after experiencing what she thought was a case of spring allergies, Gail was diagnosed with lung cancer: a big surprise for someone who had never smoked. Upon discovering her illness was caused by radon, she embarked on a years-long effort to educate herself and others on the dangers of radon exposure and importance of mitigation, all while battling lung cancer as a chronic illness and using her experiences to inspire hope in others fighting cancer.
During my first year in Congress, my team and I had the pleasure of working with Gail on multiple occasions to raise awareness of important issues in health care. She lent her voice to roundtable discussions on affordability of prescription drugs and accessibility to quality care, and her powerful, personal story always made an impact on everyone present. She was a frequent contributor to community discussions held by organizations like AARP Iowa and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, all with an aim of educating others. She spent time passionately advocating to state legislators and lawmakers in Washington for policies that would better inform the public about radon and mandate radon testing in schools. She still found time to volunteer for organizations like Free to Breathe and participate in the American Lung Association’s Fight for Air Climb – Des Moines, climbing the stairs of multiple downtown buildings post-treatment with one lung. Suffice it to say, she was a unique force for positive change.
I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to follow in Gail’s footsteps and educate Iowans about radon testing and mitigation. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas; you cannot see, smell, or taste it, but it may be present in your home or school building. While harmless in small amounts, breathing in elevated levels of radon can lead to serious illness. Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer, and we lose hundreds of Iowans every year to this illness. Five out of every seven homes in Iowa have an unacceptable level of radon, and it is recommended homeowners test their homes for radon every two years. The Iowa Radon Hotline at 1-800-383-5992 is a valuable resource to not only get answers to your questions, but also to order a testing kit to keep you and your family safe.
I admire Gail’s courage, grace, and grit in the face of unimaginable challenge. Her legacy of teaching, advocating, and giving hope to those battling cancer is a beautiful example of Iowan values: persevering through difficult times, bettering the lives of those around you through hard work and dedication, and leaving something meaningful behind for future generations. Her work made a difference.
I extend my sincere condolences to her loved ones during this
difficult time and am keeping them in my prayers. Iowa is a
better place because of neighbors like Gail Orcutt, and I
am proud to honor her as Iowan of the Week.
U.S. Congresswoman Cindy Axne,
Representing the 3rd Distict of Iowa
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