Word Echoes from SANZ: “National Cancer Survivors Day”
Written by Helewise Arends on June 4, 2018
National Cancer Survivors Day is celebrated primarily on the first Sunday in June in the USA.
The day is meant to “demonstrate that life after a cancer diagnosis can be a reality.”
The first National Cancer Survivors Day was held on June 1988.
Since then National Cancer Survivors campaigns have spread to other countries
today thousands gather across the globe to honour cancer survivors.
It is a day for cancer survivors to stand together and show the world that life after cancer
diagnosis can be fruitful, rewarding, and even inspiring.
It provides an opportunity for all people living with a history of cancer to connect with each other,
celebrate milestones and acknowledge the contributions of the families, friends, health-care providers,
and researchers who have supported them along the way.It is also a day to draw attention
to the ongoing challenges of cancer survivorship in order to promote more resources,research
and survivor-friendly legislation to improve cancer survivors quality of life.
The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation defines a survivor as anyone
living with a history of cancer – from the moment of diagnosis throughout the remainder of life.
It is an opportunity for the community to demonstrate that it is an active ,productive cancer survivors
population and to bring awareness to the challenges they face during and after treatment.
The slogan for Cancer Survivors Day 2015 – 2018 :
There are predicted to be over 18 million cancer survivors by 2022 in the US alone. .
The Theme for 2018 – “Don’t Stop Believing”
It is a CELEBRATION for those who have survived,
an INSPIRATION for those recently diagnosed,
and an OUTREACH to the community.
Share the gift of knowledge, hope and inspiration.
Local towns, cities, hospitals, and support groups usually host events and
celebrations which includes parades, carnivals, art exhibits,
and testimonies to honour local cancer survivors. (Check your local listings )
Share the gift of knowledge, hope and inspiration.
Be a Champion – #StandUptoCancer
BLOGGER: HELEWISE ARENDS
