May 27, 2021 – Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois, Decatur Memorial Hospital and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital will once again join together and celebrate our local cancer survivors.
National Cancer Survivors Day is an annual celebration that honors cancer survivors whether recently diagnosed or in remission for years. Cancer survivors and caregivers will join together at Richland Community College on Saturday, June 5 from 9 – 11 am for a drive-through celebration of survivors.
“This year’s celebration will be a bit different than years past,” said Calvin Robinson, executive director of oncology services for the Cancer Center at Decatur Memorial Hospital. “Due to the pandemic, we had to shift our focus and I think we came up with a great solution.”
Physicians, health care workers and loved ones of survivors will line the parking lot with encouraging signs and joyous cheers as survivors and caregivers parade through the event and receive complimentary Cancer Survivors Day gifts from the three organizations as well as special treats from local businesses.
“One thing I certainly missed, not being able to have the event last year, was seeing the smiling faces from all the survivors,” said Valerie Jordan, director of oncology services at St. Mary’s Hospital. “It’s like seeing an old friend you haven’t spoken to in years, but you immediately jump back into conversation like it was yesterday!”
The three organizations are also encouraging members of the public to join in on the celebration. If you would like to cheer on local survivors, please arrive at Richland Community College before 9 am on June 5. Dr. Benjamin Esparaz, an oncologist at Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois added, “Whether you bring a big sign or just a smiling face, please join us as we celebrate and encourage our local survivors.”
For questions regarding survivors, caregivers or if you would like more information about attending the event please call 217-876-4749.
