On Sunday, the American Cancer Society will join millions of Americans in honoring cancer survivors as part of the 33rd annual National Cancer Survivors Day. There are more than 17 million cancer survivors living in the United States, and their ranks are growing. With increased survivorship comes increased demand for services that help cancer patients get through their treatment.
“The fact that 17 million cancer survivors will celebrate another birthday this year makes clear that, together with our supporters, the American Cancer Society is making real progress against this disease,” said Cathy Alsup, executive director of the American Cancer Society Hawaii Pacific Area. “A hundred years ago, the disease was nearly always fatal.”
The society provides a variety of free patient services, including lodging assistance for treatment away from home, emotional support through its online community (Cancer Survivors Network), and other services to cope with the physical, social, emotional and financial toll cancer can take on their lives — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“When I first heard ‘you have cancer’ I was shocked. I heard the doctor talking after that, but I could not think as my mind was wondering how to take care of this as soon as possible, I wanted it to be over ASAP. Traveling home was difficult as I was alone and I had questions: why don’t we operate and get it out right now? Can this cancer in my earlobe spread to other parts of my body? Am I going to get the best advice from the doctor I saw? Is there a better treatment with better success?” said Lee Lord, a survivor and Hawaii-Guam Board Member from Hilo. “I am so grateful that the American Cancer Society has the Hotline 24/7 (800-ACS -2345) to answer any questions survivors have. What a huge relief. The other services they provide also provide relief for emotional, financial, travel, and lodging needs as well as support for the patient and their family and friends regarding treatment, support groups, understanding and answers. Survivors have somewhere to turn, and that is invaluable. Mahalo ACS. “
Hope Lodge Hawaii, located on Oahu, is the only Hope Lodge in the Western U.S. Since opening in November 2016, it has served over 700 unique cancer patients – with over 94% traveling from the neighbor islands with the remaining 6% from Guam, American Samoa, the mainland U.S., international, and Oahu – and has assisted families with personal and financial support during an extraordinarily challenging time in their lives.
Anyone can access these programs and services by calling 1 (800) 227-2345 or by visiting www.cancer.org.
“National Cancer Survivors Day is the perfect time to let people know about all the ways the American Cancer Society can help during every step of the cancer experience and beyond,” added Alsup. “Whether you are still on the journey to get well, need tips and tools to help stay well after treatment, want to support our efforts to find cures, or are ready to join with others to fight back against the disease, the American Cancer Society is in your corner.”
National Cancer Survivors Day coincides with the American Cancer Society Relay For Life season. Relay For Life is the world’s largest movement to end cancer. It brings together millions of people each year to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and fight back against the disease. Relay For Life events are held in communities throughout Hawaii, including Kailua-Kona and Hilo, and help to fund the society’s mission.
National Cancer Survivors Day is organized by the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation in partnership with American Cancer Society, hospitals and survivor groups throughout the country.