National Cancer Survivors Day

Thanks to advances in cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and follow-up care, more people than ever before are surviving cancer. In Canada there are close to one million cancer survivors, and this number is expected to rise. Worldwide, there are more than 32 million cancer survivors.

Sunday, June 5 is National Cancer Survivors Day®, an annual worldwide Celebration of Life that is held annually on the first Sunday in June. Each year people around the world come together to recognize the cancer survivors in their community, raise awareness of the challenges these survivors face, and, most importantly, celebrate life.

Despite the resolution of being cancer-free, the transition from cancer patient to cancer survivor is often a time of change and adjustment. The Canadian Cancer Society highlights some common concerns that cancer survivors may face when thinking about the future:

• Feelings after cancer treatment 
• Worrying that cancer will come back
• Thinking about the future
• Work and finances
• Relationships after cancer
• Wellness planning
• Pregnancy after cancer treatment
• Late and long term effects of treatment 

The London Regional Cancer Program has also developed a helpful video resource called Transitions After Treatment - virtual tour that walks patients through the various aspects of survivorship.

Behind every survivor is a personal story of bravery, strength and survival. In honour of National Cancer Survivors Day, we’re sharing personal survival stories from four women who beat breast cancer. Click the following links to learn more about Jen, Brenda, Elisa, and Barb.

Jen's story  

Brenda's story

Elisa's story  

Barb’s story