Mother Nature delivered a sunny sky and mild temperature to the large crowd gathered at the Blessing Cancer Center on Friday, May 31, to mark National Cancer Survivor Day.
Barbara Lewis shared with the crowd her story. The pancreatic cancer survivor said faith and family led her to where she is today.
“I didn’t think I could survive,” Lewis said after receiving her diagnosis. “I didn’t want to put my family through this. I didn’t want them to have to take care of me. But they kept pushing me. I said I couldn’t do it. They said, ‘Mom, yes you can.’”
The crowd also heard from Robert Johnson, MD, medical director and radiation oncologist, Blessing Cancer Center.
“While your doctors and other caregivers look forward to the day your treatment is complete and your life gets back to normal - you never leave our thoughts or our hearts. That is what today is about, a time for all of us to reflect, rejoice and reconnect.”
Lori Wilkey, administrative director, Blessing Cancer Center and Surgical Services, thanked cancer survivors.
“You are a role model. The determination and dignity with which you approach life provides an example for all of us around you, helping us to approach our work with the drive and determination you demonstrate.”
Each cancer survivor received a pin indicating the type of cancer they experienced, were able to sign a bright pink fire truck belonging to Pink Heals Western Illinois, part of a nationwide group dedicated to serving cancer patients, and joined in for a group picture in the shape of a cancer ribbon. This was the 4th year Blessing Cancer Center caregivers, cancer survivors and their loved ones have gathered to mark National Cancer Survivor Day.