National Cancer Survivors Day
The National Cancer Survivors Day is held on the first Sunday in June in various countries. The day is meant to “demonstrate that life after a cancer diagnosis can be a reality”[1]
History
The National Cancer Survivors Day was first announced by Merril Hastings at the second national conference meeting of the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship in Albuquerque, New Mexico on November 20, 1987.[2] Later, Hastings filed the name as an International Class 042 Service, as well as registering with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in the name of Pulse Publications.[2]
The first National Cancer Survivors Day was held on June 5, 1988. Twenty other National Cancer Survivors Days have taken place since.
Events
Local towns, cities, hospitals, and support groups usually host events and celebrations on National Cancer Survivors Day. Celebrations can include parades, carnivals, art exhibits, contests, and testimonies to honor local cancer survivors.
The 2008 celebration included a commencement by U.S. President George W. Bush and the National Cancer Institute director.[3]
Participating countries
- United States
- Canada
- Cayman Islands
- Antigua
- Trinidad
- Tobago
- Italy
- The Netherlands
- India
- South Africa
- Malaysia
- Guam
- Australia
- American Samoa
Sponsoring corporations
Frequent sponsors of the National Cancer Survivors Day include AstraZeneca, COPING Magazine, Lilly Oncology, and the R.A. Bloch Cancer Foundation.
References
- ^ "The Official Website: National Cancer Survivors Day." National Cancer Survivors Day: A Celebration of Life. 2008. The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation. 30 June 2008 <http://www.ncsdf.org/>.
- ^ a b "Origin of National Cancer Survivors Day." National Cancer Survivors Day. COPING magazine. 30 June 2008 <http://www.nationalcancersurvivorsday.com/body_index.html>.
- ^ For Immediate Release. Franklin: National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation. Press Release 2008.