Cancer patients are invited to take a break from the hard work of fighting cancer for an evening to relax, network with other cancer patients and celebrate life.

The Survivor Celebration will be 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, June 9 at The University of Toledo Health Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center in recognition of National Cancer Survivor Month in June.

“Each year of survivorship is a reason for joy,” said Renee Schick, manager of Renee’s Survivor Shop in the Dana Cancer Center. “We want to recognize and honor our patients and their caregivers for their strength and courage through the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.”

Survivors and their guests will be treated to live music, games, refreshments and door prizes. They also will have the opportunity to participate in a collaborative mural painting with a local artist and others touched by cancer. Free skin cancer screenings will be offered and the Survivor Shop will be open for shopping.

Experts will be on hand to answer questions and provide advice for survivors in caring for themselves during and after cancer treatment. Patients will receive information about survivorship care, options for treating lymphedema, nutrition advice and health coaching.

“The cancer journey is so different for each patient,” said Michelle Giovanoli, UT Health radiation oncologist therapy manager and breast cancer survivor. “We want to be a resource for continuing support as our patients and their families celebrate life beyond a cancer diagnosis.”

Nearly 200 survivors and their loved ones, along with doctors, nurses and other care providers are expected to attend.

The event is free, but reservations are requested. Email EleanorNDanaCancerCenter@utoledo.edu or call 419.383.5243.

Tags: The University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC)