Just a few weeks ago, Sherman Health hosted its 15th annual Cancer Survivors’ Day Celebration.  The event is held to celebrate life and show that a healthy life after being diagnosed with cancer can be a reality.

Cheri Novak, Registered Nurse and Oncology Certified Nurse at Sherman Hospital, was able to give us a glimpse of the day.

Sherman Health Blog: How was the weather on Sunday? Did it cooperate?
Cheri Novak: Not exactly. But, fortunately we held it inside as the weather was humid and it had rained that day. (The air conditioning did not hold up too well but could be due to control settings on a weekend)

SHB: How many people attended this year’s Cancer Survivors’ Day Celebration, and of those how many were cancer survivors?
CN: We had about 60 people present at our Cancer Survivors’ Day Celebration with about 35-40 of them actual cancer survivors.

SHB: The Cancer Survivors’ Day Celebration has been around for quite a while. Looking back, what was the main encouragement to start this event?
CN: This year was the 23rd annual National Cancer Survivors’ Day.  However, Sherman Hospital has held its own celebration in honor and support of our patients. It’s a day where we are able to meet with our patients, their loved ones, and other members of our supportive team to listen to their stories, hear their encouraging words, and celebrate survivorship.

SHB: Who spoke at the event this year?
CN: We had several people speak at our event: Karen Greetis (Nurse Navigator from the Cancer Care Center), Dr. C. Yeshwant (Hematologist/Oncologist), and Rev. Neris Diaz-Cabello (Sherman Chaplain Services).  We also were able to have a few Cancer Survivors speak, Dick Klaslo and Terry Porties.

SHB: What is generally talked about the most at the Cancer Survivors’ events?
CN: Takeaway messages were about having strength, courage, hope, and feeling empowered through their journey through cancer and treatments.

SHB: What, besides moral support, do those in attendance who are not cancer survivors contribute to this event?
CN: Encouragement provided from supporters to others to become active in volunteering through support groups.

We provided certificates for our survivors and surprised lucky winners with t-shirts.  A delicious brunch was managed by Joe Kelly and his dietary team.

SHB: What was the most inspiring part of the day?
CN: The most inspiring part of the day is hearing the survivors’ stories and seeing their smiles as they proudly receive their certificates.  It’s truly amazing to experience their survivorship through their stories.