Support center hosts free event for cancer survivors By MATT ARMES Staff Writer
Any cancer survivor appreciates the gift of living after winning the fight against cancer. One local support center wants to recognize them for their victories.
The Mid-Atlantic Cancer Support Center is hosting a free dinner and photographic essay exhibit Saturday at 6 p.m. at Chesapeake Christian Fellowship in Davidsonville to commemorate National Cancer Survivor's Day.
According to MACSC executive director and Bowie State University alumnus Howard Dunkley, the event will give voice to the millions of people who have been touched by cancer.
"This event will lift people's spirits because they can learn how surviving cancer is an attitude about life and living each day to the fullest," he said.
"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," he added.
Dunkley went on to say that the event will also recognize the contributions of their families, friends and health-care providers and call attention to the issues of cancer survivorship.
The MASCS, headquartered in Annapolis, recently opened a small branch in Bowie with classes being offered at Cornerstone Assembly of God church to cancer survivors on the importance of proper nutrition and exercise.
The company's board is also composed of 10 people from Annapolis and Bowie who have gone through or been close to people who have cancer.
Dunkley explained that NCSD is an annual, worldwide celebration of life that is held in hundreds of communities throughout the United States, Canada and other countries.
"We will join millions of people in celebrating life as part of the 21st annual NCSD, the world's largest cancer survivor event," he said.
"Cancer survivors, caregivers, family members, friends and health-care professionals will unite in this symbolic event to show the world that life after a cancer diagnosis can be a reality."
Recent statistics regarding those living with cancer in the United States aren't exactly comforting. Approximately 10.5 million Americans are living with 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.
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.
But Dunkley said the sole purpose of the event is to celebrate life.
"Despite the adversities they face, cancer survivors continue to show resilience by living active, productive lives," he said.
"They face each day with courage and dignity in their fight against cancer and serve as an inspiration to all of us."
Dunkley went on to say that survivors face many challenges such as hindered access to cancer specialists and promising new treatments, inadequate insurance, financial hardship, employment problems and psychological struggles. In light of these difficulties, attention needs to be focused on improving the critical aspects of long-term care for cancer survivors.
"The bottom line is that it's the one thing we want to do: celebrate with people who had cancer and are still alive," he stated.
"The one thing I want people to walk away with is the knowledge that they're not alone, that there are people who are willing to walk with them."
Dunkley said there are spaces available for 200 people for the event. Those interested in attending should call 443-223-6080 to reserve a seat.
The Mid-Atlantic Cancer Support Center is a nonprofit organization committed to providing services to women, men and children touched by cancer. It is a place where people can find hope and healing through programs and support services designed to inspire and empower all cancer survivors, their caregivers, loved ones and health-care providers.
For information about the Mid-Atlantic Cancer Support Center, visit www.macancersupport.org.
