Tuesday, November 08, 2011
Cancer Calendar Tells Stories of Survivorship
Charlotte, N.C. – For many, calendars are useful to keep track of important dates throughout the year. For cancer patients, calendars represent daily milestones in their journey to survivorship. Back for the fouth year by popular demand, Presbyterian Cancer Center has created a calendar that lets survivors tell their own story and gives patients a daily dose of inspiration.
Meet a few of the survivors:
Virginia & George: This husband and wife have been through everything together, including separate cancer diagnoses. Virginia relied so heavily on the Strides to Strength rehab program for her breast cancer recovery that she wasted no time getting George involved when he received his prostate cancer diagnosis. Their good health is one of many things they’ll celebrate for their 60th anniversary.
Jane: This Davidson resident and rectal cancer survivor’s approach to treatment was to try to keep life as normal as possible. She refused to let things like chemo and surgery slow her down – so much so that she even planned treatments around her bowling tournaments!
Ruth: This Kannapolis resident and ovarian cancer survivor has made herself an active part of her care team. When her cancer recurred she spent hours online researching clinical trials and then worked with her clinicians to bring the trial to Charlotte.
Casey: This Ballantyne resident is currently a Clemson Tiger who’s had to balance testicular cancer treatment along with his coursework. This focused young man used his diagnosis to fuel his determination, and thanks to his experience he’s changed his major so that he can become a doctor.
Punkin: This Myers Park resident and brain cancer survivor was shocked when she learned she carried a genetic disease that put her and her family at risk for future cancer diagnoses. Instead of feeling sorry for herself, she’s advocated for her family to get tested so that they can be proactive about treatment.
“We’re so honored to be a part of something that makes people smile,” said Marcia Lampert, manager of Presbyterian Buddy Kemp Cancer Support Center. “You can’t help but feel inspired when you read through the stories.”
To celebrate the calendar’s launch, a party is being held on Tuesday, Nov. 10, for the 12 survivors, their nominators and Presbyterian Cancer Center staff. Each survivor will be presented with a framed copy of their photo, complete photo CD and several copies of the calendar to share with family and friends.
Presbyterian Buddy Kemp Cancer Support Center is distributing the calendars free of charge to anyone in the community impacted by cancer. Donations are appreciated and will be used to provide emergency assistance to cancer survivors in need. Order requests may be made online: www.presbyterian.org/buddykemp. You may also visit them at 242 Colonial Avenue or call 704-384-5223 for more information.
