One-of-a-kind piece features 12 local cancer survivors
For many, calendars are useful to keep track of important dates throughout the year. For cancer patients, calendars represent daily milestones in their journey to survivorship. For the sixth year, Novant Health Cancer Center has created a calendar that lets survivors tell their own story and gives newly diagnosed patients a daily dose of inspiration.
Meet a few of the survivors:
Kathy: This South Charlotte resident and pancreatic cancer survivor endured months of body ravaging chemo just to give her a chance at surgery – the only option to prolong her life. The desire to be around for her grandchildren gave her the strength to push through, and doctors named her their miracle patient once surgery was complete and they were able to proclaim her cancer-free!
José: This Ballantyne resident and colorectal cancer survivor acquired a personal advocacy team when he was diagnosed. His family attended all medical appointments with him so that they could take notes, research treatment options and present recommendations so that he could make an informed decision about his care. They even attended support group with him so that he never had any barriers to support due to language. Now he credits his family with his survival.
Rosa: This multiple myeloma and lung cancer survivor found out she was diagnosed with two cancers at the same time. Though treatment was long, she felt the best thing she could do for herself was stay busy and eat well, so she tackled both goals by spending time in her garden.
“When you’re diagnosed with cancer, it means the world to find someone else who has been through a similar journey,” said Marcia Lampert, manager, Novant Health Buddy Kemp Cancer support Center. “This calendar creates connections for our patients at such a vulnerable time in their lives and shows them that there really is hope in their diagnosis.”
To celebrate the calendar’s launch, a party is being held on Tues., Nov. 19, for the 12 survivors, their families and cancer center physicians and staff. Each survivor will be presented with a framed copy of their photo, complete photoshoot CD and several copies of the calendar to share.
Novant Health Buddy Kemp Cancer Support Center is distributing the calendar free of charge to anyone in the community impacted by cancer. Donations are appreciated and will go to support the Hand-in-hand Fund, which provides emergency financial assistance to cancer survivors in need. Visit novanthealth.org/buddykemp to request a copy or learn more.
Media note: Media is invited to attend the calendar release party at Novant Health Buddy Kemp Cancer Support Center on Nov. 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. for great photo opportunities. 242 Colonial Ave.
Contact: Marketing and public relations, 704-384-4119
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