The 18th Annual Cancer Survivors' Celebration & Walk was a record-breaking event in more ways than one! Close to 4,000 cancer survivors, friends, family members and caregivers—more than ever before-- took part event on National Cancer Survivors Day, Sunday, June 5th.
Picture-perfect summer weather was the backdrop for the sea of purple (worn by cancer survivors) and white-t-shirts seen along the lakefront walk path, and enjoying the picnic and entertainment in Grant Park.
We set another record at this year's walk, as well. "Break Cancer," is an online campaign started by the LIVESTRONG Young Adult Alliance which partners with organizations across the country, including the Lurie Cancer Center, to raise awareness and offer support to young adults affected by cancer. 29-year-old lymphoma survivor Jenna Benn saw a call for ideas on the Lurie Cancer Center's Facebook page, and came up with the suggestion of having "The Most People Dancing to Twist Out Cancer."
Before leading off the dance, Jenna spoke about what the twist has meant to her. "Throughout this journey I had to figure out creative ways to hold on to my spirit. . .In my blog, I opened up and wrote about my deepest fears, hopes and dreams; yet still found myself disconnected from the world around me. I felt that while I was on pause, everyone else was on play.
So I decided to change the rules. I chose to twist my way through cancer. During the days when I was immuno-suppressed and I couldn't be out in public, I admittedly was feeling incredibly lonely. I decided to post a video of myself doing the twist alone in my room, and challenged my readers to meet me halfway. . . Sure enough, they videotaped themselves, welcomed me into their homes and offices, and joined me (on the dance floor). As we twisted, I was able to tiptoe out of the shadows, reconnect with my body, and eventually reclaim my spirit."
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