This celebration is to acknowledge the cancer survivors in their community, to raise awareness of the ongoing challenges cancer survivors face because of their disease, and – most importantly – to celebrate life! With more than 15.5 million people living with and beyond cancer in the U.S. today – and more than 32 million cancer survivors worldwide – everyone knows someone whose life has been touched by cancer. Cancer mortality rates are steadily declining, and cancer survivors are living longer than ever before. According to Laura Shipp, Foundation spokesperson, “As many survivors will tell you, the effects of cancer don’t end when treatment does. Cancer survivors face ongoing, often long-lasting, hardships because of their disease.” (National Cancer Survivor Day Foundation Inc.)

At Peace Lutheran, we have many cancer survivors. How can we celebrate their lives? Show those with cancer that they’re still needed and loved. Give them a hug. Tell them how you feel. Surprise them with a smoothie, books, magazines, balloon, flowers, or music. Offer to help, such as cooking, laundry, babysitting, or running errands. Be specific by asking, “What day can I bring you dinner?” And, offer to help only if you intend to follow through with it and don’t expect something in return.