National Cancer Survivors Day® Observed Sunday, June 6

National Cancer Survivors Day® is Sunday, June 6, 2010. This 23rd annual, worldwide celebration of life will be held in hundreds of communities throughout the United States, Canada, and other participating countries. Cancer survivors, caregivers, family members, friends and healthcare professionals will unite to show that life after a cancer diagnosis can be meaningful and productive.

Unity Cancer Center, Unity Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Regional Health are hosting a free celebration on June 6 from 2 to 4 p.m. to commemorate NCSD. The event will be held at St. Elizabeth East, 1701 S. Creasy Lane, Lafayette. "Come learn how surviving cancer is an attitude about life and living each day to the fullest," says Dr. Nancy A. DiMartino with Lafayette Cancer Care. "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 their families, friends and health care providers."

The Lafayette celebration will include an ice cream social, entertainment and an inspirational talk with local cancer survivor - Brenda Combs. The first 100 cancer survivors to register will receive a free t-shirt and goodie bag.

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.

This year's local National Cancer Survivors Day celebration of life will be held in our community at:

WHERE: St. Elizabeth East, 1701 S. Creasy Lane, Lafayette.
WHEN: 2 - 4 p.m. There will be free ice cream for everyone and the first 100 cancer survivors to register will receive a free t-shirt and goodie bag. Local cancer survivor Brenda Combs will speak.

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