Cancer Survivors Day Sunday

Cancer Survivors Day observed Sunday
Saturday, June 09, 2007
By SARA FRYE The Mississippi Press
PASCAGOULA -- Cancer survivors and their families can participate in the 20th annual National Cancer Survivors Day at the Jackson County Civic Center beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday.
"It is really a celebration of life after diagnosis," said Cathy Scott, a registered nurse. Scott is the outreach educator at the Singing River Hospital Cancer Center.
National Cancer Survivors Day is an annual event to celebrate life after a cancer diagnosis, and it is traditionally observed on the first Sunday in June, according to information from the National Cancer Survivors Foundation's Web site, ncsdf.org.
The foundation offers free guidance, education and networking to hospitals and cancer-related organizations that host National Cancer Survivors Day events.
"Cancer is not a death sentence," said Scott. "National Cancer Survivors Day is a day to celebrate the joys and wonders of life."
An 8-year breast cancer survivor herself, Scott will speak at the civic center in Pascagoula about life after a cancer diagnosis.
"We know the number of survivors is increasing," said Scott. "Last year more than 10 million people survived."
The event, sponsored by Singing River Hospital System's Regional Cancer Center, will allow cancer survivors and family members to share their experiences, said Scott.
Meeting others who have shared the struggles of surviving cancer is one of the reasons, Scott said, she attends the day.
"It's always good to see who has traveled that same journey," said Scott. "And to see what they are doing with their lives."
The emotions many survivors feel during the day may be confusing, said Scott, and many attendees feel joy, sorrow and wonderment all at the same time.
"It reminds me of how precious life really is, and it causes you to reflect on your treatment," said Scott. "And it makes me grateful to still be here alive and well."
Reporter Sara Frye can be reached at sfrye@themississippipress.com or (228) 934-1435.