Over 200 survivors and their families joined us for the 34th Annual Cancer Survivors Day, held on Saturday, May 31, at the Intergenerational Center for Arts and Wellness. There were activities galore as people enjoyed a gentle movement class, participated in a drum circle, and learned about Tai Chi. In addition, ongoing activities included a cooking demonstration, balance assessments, crafts, and many others.
Attendees also enjoyed a delicious lunch, socialized with others who have been impacted by cancer, and made new friends. Check out our photo gallery below!
For more information about the event, partners and resources, check out this article here!
Enjoy these fun photos from the event!
At the event we asked survivors to share what they considered their biggest challenge, a positive lesson they learned from their cancer journey, or any advice they have for others.
Here’s what they had to say:
- Christine, 53, Breast: You have a support group with Cancer Services! Just let us be there for you.
- Betty, 67, Endometrial: Remain positive, not giving up. No matter what you’re going through, be kind and love everyone. Love God first, and good things will come back to you.
- Lauren, 26, Neuroendocrine: Fight for yourself, listen to your body, you know it best. You are not alone; lean on your family and friends. You are not a burden!
- Theresa, age and type unknown: Always try to keep positive and avoid people who give more negative advice. You can overcome this disease. Watch funny movies, listen to upbeat music, and embrace family and friends. Ask for help when you can’t do things on your own. Reach out to your church family and your cancer support groups.
- Elizabeth, 47, Breast: The most significant challenge was telling my loved ones.
- Sharon, 67, Breast: Prayer and having a good support group.
- Adele, 62, Breast: Coming to the cancer events and meeting new people.
- Carolyn, 75, Pancreas: God!!!
- Rokisha, 49, Breast: For me, the most challenging change with being diagnosed would be getting support when needed, for food, gas, and utilities.
- Delydia, 58: Breast: My faith in God has helped me the most. My family and my church family really stepped up to help me during my journey.
- Peter, 75, Several: The most significant challenge about going through cancer is the fear of leaving family needing me. Your attitude makes a huge difference. Try not to despair. You can beat it!
- Kim, 49, Breast: Stay positive, live life, have fun, keep good uplifting people, stay motivated, and encouraged. Listen to your body!
- Christine, 50, Breast: Have a strong support system, trust the science, and listen to your doctors.
- Katalina, 34, Endometrial: Prior to diagnosis, I was working sixty hours a week on average, never taking time for myself, hobbies, or just living life. After, you are forced to slow down. Take every day as it is. Day by day. I have learned to prioritize time, relationships, and take time to enjoy things besides work, and just slow down.
- Peggy, 66, Breast: The greatest challenge is staying positive during chemotherapy and not giving up. It is good to be surrounded by people who are going through or have gone through what I am going through. Everyone is so positive and encouraging. These groups have taken me out of my depression and isolation. They have reminded me that life is good and to live life to the fullest. Stay off WebMD!
- Angie, 53, Laryngeal: Learn to listen well and look at the person speaking to you is very helpful.
- Gladys, 67, Breast: Family, faith, & love.
- Yolonda, 47, Breast: Understand that loss is temporary, and the hair and breast can be restored. Embrace change as newness. Keep your family involved in your emotional challenges to help you get through. You are not alone!
- Scott, 65, Angiosarcoma: Develop a positive mindset. Read and learn about your cancer. Enjoy the small things in life. Nurture yourself and your soul. Make time for quiet reflection every day.
- Cristina, 76, Lung: Life is precious, live it daily. Never question “why me.” Use all your energy to fight this battle. Believe that you will win the battle!
