Shining light on cancer survivors




Launched in 1988, National Cancer Survivors Day was created for anyone living with a history of cancer, from the time of diagnosis through the remainder of life.

Celebrated on the first Sunday in June, it is day of reflection for all survivors and an inspiration for those who are newly diagnosed.

It’s meant to shine a light on all the challenges faced by survivors and to celebrate the small victories of living every day.

As a result of the advances we’ve seen in surgery, medicine and radiation, there are many people living longer with cancer. There are over 16 million cancer survivors in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society, and many joined in celebrations on June 5 to connect to others in similar circumstances.

Despite new developments in treatment, cancer survivors still face critical issues and barriers to care, such as health insurance denials, financial burdens of ongoing cancer care, difficulty finding or maintaining a job, and limited accessibility to promising new treatments and clinical trials. These undue burdens can cause emotional stress and limit the quality of life that everyone deserves.

When cancer treatment comes to an end, it should be a time of rejoicing and relief. But it’s usually a time of uncertainty and vulnerability, as there are fewer doctor visits and more anxiety about recurrence.

Returning to “normalcy” is harder than most think.

Recent studies have shown that maintaining a positive attitude can help alleviate symptoms of fear and worry about an inexact future. Emotional support and support groups can be helpful in sorting out feelings with others in similar circumstances.

The American Cancer Society and the Cancer Support Community have support groups at no charge to the patient or family.

Los Robles Regional Medical Center will continue to provide education awareness throughout the year and honor all cancer survivors in their continued journey toward wellness.

The lavender ribbon is often seen as the awareness color for this month, but all awareness ribbon colors are seen and are worn as a sign of support for those who are diagnosed and surviving.

Cole is the cancer program coordinator for Los Robles Health System.