Cindy Wedel, M.P.A.
Event to celebrate cancer survivors
A cancer diagnosis changes lives, but with new targeted therapies, advanced surgical techniques and radiation protocols, many cancer patients have become cancer survivors.
“Living in Full Bloom,” presented by Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center to celebrate survivorship, will be held Sunday, June 8, from 2- 4:30 p.m., at the Vanderbilt Student Life Center.
“Living in Full Bloom” is a free event for everyone whose life has been affected by cancer, including cancer survivors, family members, friends and medical professionals. Events include a cancer survivorship recognition ceremony, children's activities and musical entertainment.
“One of the most moving elements of this celebration is hearing from the individual survivors during the recognition ceremony,” said Sheila Bates, manager of Community Outreach. “We have childhood cancer survivors who are too small to hold a microphone by themselves, those who have just been diagnosed and adults who overcame tremendous odds and can now say they are 50-year survivors. It is a truly inspirational experience.”
This year's keynote speaker is Ruth McGinnis, a cancer survivor, recording artist and author of “Living the Good Life,” a guide to well-being. Musical entertainment will be provided by Deep Grooves, performing on Caribbean steel drums.
Free valet and self-parking is available in the 25th Avenue garage, with shuttle service to the Student Life Center. To reserve a seat, call 936-0322 or go to www.vicc.org/2008living.
Reservations should be received by Monday, June 2.
“Living in Full Bloom” is co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society and the Tennessee Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition.