Celebration of Life for Cancer Survivors

You have been diagnosed with cancer and are undergoing treatment — or have recently completed your treatment program. Your family and friends have been by your side during this long and difficult process.

“The minute you are diagnosed with cancer, you become a survivor,” says Washington Health Community Outreach Manager, Kayla Gupta. “In addition to family and friends, the support of other survivors can make a real difference for those going through cancer treatment,” she adds. The health system’s annual Celebration of Life reception is designed to do just this — connect current patients and their families to other survivors.

This year, the 16^th Annual Celebration of Life will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 15. The free event, open to all individuals touched by cancer regardless of where they received treatment, will be held in the Conrad E. Anderson, MD, Auditorium, Washington West building, 2500 Mowry Ave. in Fremont.

Designed as an inspirational evening of hope, healing and health, the program will feature speakers sharing personal stories of living with cancer, staff educational presentations and information booths. Aegis Living, Fremont will provide vegetarian Mediterranean food.

A highlight of the event will be a survivor and caregiver presentation by Kazuko Beck and Steve, her husband and caregiver. Kazuko, who was diagnosed in 2009 with multiple myeloma, has been receiving treatment at Washington Health since 2017.

In response to requests received from several community members, this year’s topics will include “Nutritional Demands for Recovery and Survivorship,” presented by registered dietitian Teelah Kaileh and “Exercise During Treatment and Beyond,” presented by Director of Rehab Services, Alisa Curry.

Vendors sharing information prior to the program include: HERS Breast Cancer Foundation, which supplies special garments and wigs for breast cancer patients; Haller’s Pharmacy, which carries CBD products and durable medical equipment; the Fremont Family Resource Center, a one-stop shop for social services; Fremont Botanicals; Washington Health Service League of Volunteers; UCSF - Washington Cancer Center (outpatient clinic and radiation oncology); Washington Health Infusion Center; and a number of other pertinent services for cancer patients and their families.

“Our hope is that those attending will gain valuable information on navigating the challenges of surviving cancer,” Gupta adds. “We want them to feel supported, empowered, better equipped with resources, and to walk away feeling a stronger sense of community.”

The cancer journey can feel very isolating.” She explains, “Washington Health holds this annual reception so that those affected by cancer can connect with others and gain strength by knowing they aren’t alone.”

Those planning to attend are encouraged to make reservations to ensure adequate seating. RSVP to WashingtonHealth.com/events or call 800.963.7070.