QUINCY, ILL. -- National Cancer Survivors Day (NCSD) is Monday, June 7, 2010.  This 23rd annual, worldwide celebration of life will be held in hundreds of communities throughout the United States, Canada, and other participating countries.  This event is part of a worldwide celebration coordinated by the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation and sponsored by Bristol-Myers Squibb, Coping magazine, and Lilly Oncology. Cancer survivors, caregivers, family members, friends, and healthcare professionals will unite to show that life after a cancer diagnosis can be meaningful and productive.

Blessing Cancer Center is hosting The Inspiration of Survivorship on June 7, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the Blessing Cancer Center Atrium (lower level). Mayor John Spring will be our guest speaker.  There will also be a special viewing of the Lilly Oncology on Canvas International Art Exhibit where you will learn how a journey with cancer is transformed into art and hope. 

“Come learn how surviving cancer is an attitude about life and living each day to the fullest,” says Bonnie Kleissle, Administrative Director of the Blessing Cancer Center Program.  “You will find our community’s NCSD event filled with joy, camaraderie, hope, compassion, faith and love as we honor cancer survivors for their strength and courage.  We will also recognize the contributions of special volunteers, friends and healthcare providers and discuss the issues of cancer survivorship.”

Anyone living with a history of cancer, from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life, is a cancer survivor according to the NCSD Foundation.  Over 11 million Americans are now living with and beyond a diagnosis of cancer.  In the United States, almost half of all men and one third of all women are expected to be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives.  Learning about this disease is crucial, because many forms of cancer can be prevented and most cured if detected early. 

Major advances in cancer prevention, early detection and treatment have resulted in longer survival, and therefore, a growing number of cancer survivors.  However, a cancer diagnosis can leave a host of problems in its wake.  Physical, financial, and emotional hardships often persist after diagnosis and treatment.  Survivors may face many challenges such as hindered access to cancer specialists and promising new treatments, inadequate insurance, financial hardships, employment problems and psychological struggles.  In light of these difficulties, our community needs to focus on improving the quality of life for cancer survivors. 

Visit www.ncsd.org for more information about National Cancer Survivors Day.