More than 1,600 cancer survivors and their families attended the 2010 Cancer Survivors Day program and lunch hosted by Adventist Midwest Health. The event took place Aug. 15 at the Brookfield Zoo.

The theme of this year’s event was “Living in Full Bloom.” Cancer Survivors Day acknowledges people who received cancer-related treatment at Adventist Bolingbrook, Adventist GlenOaks, Adventist Hinsdale and Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospitals. Upon registration, each cancer survivor was given a ribbon; the ribbon’s color corresponded to the number of years they’ve been a cancer survivor. Survivors then placed their ribbon on a colorful “survivor’s tree” at the event.

Hope and healing

“Cancer Survivors Day is a celebration that puts a face on our cancer program and promotes hope and healing,” says Clarissa Moholick, the regional manager of cancer data management for Adventist Midwest Health and this year’s event organizer. “The feedback we get from community members about this program every year is so positive. We were blessed to have more than 100 volunteers who committed their time and talent to making this a successful event.

Heidi Kramer, of Cary, and Yamaha recording artist Kerri Sherwood, of Kenosha, Wis., presented “Celebrate Sweet Life,” an inspirational performance blending music and Kramer’s story of breast cancer survival. As an international speaker and registered dietician, she offers a message of healing and hope.

Speakers included Rick Wright, chief executive officer with Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital and regional executive of cancer services with Adventist Midwest Health; Dr. Donald Sweet, medical director of cancer services; Dr. Patricia Madej, medical director of comprehensive breast centers; Dr. Colleen Hagen, senior attending surgeon with Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital; Colleen Narbone, hospital chaplain, and Jeannie Cella, executive director of Wellness House. Susan Anderson and Debra Fager provided survivor testimonial presentations and Cathie Kukec and Betsy Sweeney conducted the survivor roll call.

Comprehensive care
Adventist Cancer Network provides a full continuum of services for cancer treatment – from early detection to diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. Our metropolitan Chicago oncology departments are backed by the latest cancer technologies, and we strive to meet the emotional, spiritual and educational needs of cancer patients and their families.

The cancer programs at Adventist Hinsdale and Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospitals are Accredited Comprehensive Community Cancer Programs with commendations by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. Both facilities received this accreditation with commendations in November 2009. This designation ensures patients will have access to comprehensive cancer treatment and care, including state-of-the-art technology and services close to home. In 2009, the Comprehensive Breast Center of Hinsdale and Comprehensive Breast Center of La Grange were among the first to be accredited in Illinois by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. For more information, visit www.keepingyouwell.com.

Read how regional manager of cancer data Clarissa Moholick is dedicated to ensuring the best care for patients at Adventist Midwest Health by reading “Cancer Data Manager Recognized for Commitment to Mission.”