Today marks an important day in the fight against cancer – National Cancer Survivors Day®. On this day, people from all corners of the globe gather to honor those living with a history of cancer, shed light on the ongoing challenges they face, and celebrate the gift of life.
Cancer is a disease that knows no boundaries. Over 18.1 million individuals live with and beyond cancer in the United States alone. Worldwide, nearly 44 million people have been diagnosed with cancer within the past five years. This means that cancer has touched the lives of virtually everyone, whether directly or through someone they know and care about.
The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation, the organization behind this commemoration, defines a “survivor” as anyone diagnosed with cancer and continues to live with it from the moment of diagnosis until the end of their life. It is a recognition that cancer is not merely a chapter in one’s life but an enduring part of their journey.
While tremendous progress has been made in cancer survival rates in recent decades, surviving cancer is far from the end of the story. Cancer leaves a lasting impact on a person’s health and well-being. Cancer survivors often face long-term physical and emotional side effects, an increased risk of secondary cancers and other health issues, and potentially devastating financial setbacks. National Cancer Survivors Day® aims to raise awareness of these challenges, not just as a cause for celebration but also as a call to action.
As the number of cancer survivors continues to rise, it is crucial to address their unique needs. Beyond the burden of their illness, survivors grapple with skyrocketing medical expenses, inadequate insurance coverage, difficulties in securing or retaining employment, and persistent physical, psychological, and financial struggles that extend beyond the completion of treatment.
National Cancer Survivors Day® serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting cancer survivors throughout their journey. It urges further research, allocating additional resources, and increased public awareness to enhance the lives of those who have triumphed over cancer. By coming together as a community, we can offer hope, support, and a voice to those who continue to fight and inspire others in their battle against cancer.
On this National Cancer Survivors Day®, let us honor the strength and resilience of survivors, uplift their stories, and work together to create a world where cancer is no longer a devastating force. Together, we can make a difference and transform the lives of millions affected by this disease.