Annual Cancer Survivors' Day Event Brings Together Patients, Caregivers, And Medical Professionals To Celebrate Life

Main Category: Cancer / Oncology
Article Date: 30 Aug 2007 - 2:00 PDT

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Cancer survivors, their caregivers, supporters and medical staff will hold a 'Celebration of Life' at the annual Cancer Survivors' Day at Rush University Medical Center. Hundreds of people are expected to attend the September 9th celebration taking place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the hospital's Atrium Building ground floor lobby, 1650 W. Harrison St., Chicago.

Visitors are also welcome to tour the recently renovated Woman's Board Center for Radiation Therapy to meet the clinical staff and learn about the latest advances in radiation therapy. The center recently underwent a multimillion dollar renovation, bringing in new, state-of-the-art equipment, and improving the appearance of the treatment and waiting areas.

The keynote speaker for the celebration is Roz Varon, the award winning traffic reporter for ABC 7 News This Morning. Varon will tell her personal story of battling a rare type of breast cancer. John Landecker, an iconic figure in Chicago radio for more than 30 years and current afternoon host on 94.7 Chicago's True Oldies Channel, will emcee the event.

Cancer Survivors' Day is a loving tribute to the courage of each and every person who has experienced the fight against cancer. A 'survivor' is anyone who has or had cancer, whether he or she is a long-term survivor or newly diagnosed. Approximately 10.5 million Americans are now living with and beyond a diagnosis of cancer. Major advances in cancer prevention, early detection and treatment have resulted in longer survival

"Despite the adversities they face, cancer survivors continue to show resilience by living active, productive lives," said Dr. Philip Bonomi, director of the division of hematology-oncology. "They face each day with courage and dignity in their fight against cancer and serve as an inspiration to all of us."

Cancer Survivors' Day at Rush is an uplifting event filled with joy, camaraderie, hope, compassion, and faith. Children and adults will enjoy food, carnival games, music, prizes, a classic car show, clowns, and entertainment.

"We honor cancer survivors for their strength and courage. We also recognize the contributions of their families, friends and healthcare providers and call attention to the issues of cancer survivorship," said Dr. Ross Abrams, chairman, department of radiation oncology.

http://www.rush.edu