The Breast Cancer Research Stamp (BCRS) is our country's first and and only semipostal. Semipostal stamps are intended to raise funds for causes determined by the Postal Service to be in the public interest and appropriate. The first class stamp sells for forty cents, but is only worth thirty-four cents. The overcharge or differential of six cents per stamp funds breast cancer research. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) receives seventy per-cent and the Department of Defense (DOD) Medical Research Program receives thirty per-cent. The BCRS was spearheaded by Ernie Bodai, MD, FACS, Director of Breast Surgical Services, Kaiser Permanente, Sacramento, CA. Many breast cancer advocates and private citizens joined Dr. Bodai in getting the legislation passed for the issuance of this special stamp. As of April 2001, the BCRS is the second highest selling stamp in US history! Only the Elvis stamp has sold more. Additionally, the semipostal has raised over $22 million for research. The power of this tiny piece of paper lies in the fact that ordinary individuals have the opportunity to fund the fight and find a cure. It is a painless exercise with a profound impact. Please join the fight to eradicate the epidemic of breast cancer by purchasing the BCRS at your local post office, 1.800.STAMP-24, and on-line at www.usps.com. To learn more about Dr. Bodai and the Breast Cancer Research Stamp: www.curebreastcancer.org. Together we can Stamp Out Breast Cancer! Written & Submitted by: Gina Petrak A link Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.