OhioHealth Marion Hosts Inaugural Cancer Survivor Celebration Event
Key Takeaways:
- More than 120 survivors, caregivers and care team members attended OhioHealth Marion General Hospital's first Cancer Survivor Celebration Dinner during Cancer Survivor Month.
- The inaugural event celebrated hope, resilience and survivorship for patients at every stage of the cancer journey.
- Survivors and care teams reinforced a simple message: no one faces cancer alone.
Four illuminated letters, H-O-P-E, stood at the front of the auditorium at Tri-Rivers Career Center, setting the tone for OhioHealth Marion General Hospital’s first Cancer Survivor Celebration Dinner.
More than 120 survivors, caregivers and care team members filled the auditorium for the inaugural event - held during cancer survivor month to recognize survivorship and bring together patients across all stages of care in one shared space.
"You're a survivor from that very first day," said Lucinda Pfeifer, program manager, Marion Cancer Services. "Because you do fight, you come prepared to beat cancer."
The celebration marked the first event of its kind for OhioHealth Marion, welcoming patients who are newly diagnosed, actively receiving treatment or in remission. Guests gathered for dinner, entertainment, photos and conversation with others who have shared similar experiences.
"It's important to recognize patients' strengths because I think sometimes they forget that they are strong, that they can get through this," Pfeifer said. "This helps remind them that they are fighting. They are survivors, and we're here to support them."
Survivor Jo Walters shared her story during the event, encouraging others to focus on hope and perseverance.
"You all have stories. You all have your own experiences," Walters said. "But I wanted to share with you my story to let you know that, yes, there is a bright light at the end of this adventure. Cancer is a word. It's not a sentence. And it doesn't define you."
Pfeifer said the event also highlighted the broader network of support involved in cancer care.
"Nobody goes through a cancer journey alone," she said. "From medical oncology, radiation oncology, infusion, registration and navigation teams, this evening celebrates the support we can provide to help patients through their journey."
Walters said that sense of support is what stood out most.
"They're wonderful. They are absolutely wonderful," she said. "They're there to support you in whatever way they can. This is an awesome event because it brings together survivors and people who are just diagnosed, and we can all share in this for one night."
Survivor Renee Hildreth also shared encouragement for those early in their diagnosis.
"It’s baby steps. Don't try to just leap into it. I’m five years out and I'm still taking baby steps," she said. "Groups are there and they’re well needed. You’re never alone, never alone."
To learn more about the OhioHealth Marion Cancer Center and their support services, click here.
