Celebration of Life for Cancer Survivors

Have you or someone you love been recently diagnosed with cancer? Are you undergoing treatment or have recently completed a treatment program? For most people, the support of family and friends is, or has been, crucial during this challenging journey.

“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.” 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 17^th Annual Celebration of Life will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 21. 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 a generous donation of vegetarian Mediterranean food for attendees. Celebration of Life is also supported by a sponsorship from Genentech, a member of the Roche Group.

A highlight of the event will be a survivor presentation by Tom Murillo, who was diagnosed in 2025 with colorectal and prostate cancer, and has been receiving treatment at Washington Health.

This year’s speaker topics will include information on prevention, screening, and treatment of colorectal cancer presented by Dr. Jasmine Huynh, medical oncologist specializing in gastrointestinal cancers. The evening will also feature a survivorship topic by community partner, Cancer Support Community.

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; Fremont Botanicals; Relay for Life of The East Bay, 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 explains. “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. 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.