From family members to close friends, everyone knows someone whose life has been touched by cancer. As part of National Cancer Survivors Day, Shore Health System joined hundreds of communities throughout the country to host the annual “Sail into Survivorship” event. The celebration was sponsored by the Shore Regional Cancer Center and Suicide Bridge Restaurant.
The celebration launched from Suicide Bridge, where over 200 guests took an afternoon cruise on the Dorothy Megan and the Choptank River Queen.
“It was the perfect day. The weather was ideal and everyone had a wonderful and relaxing time,” says Jeanie Scott, CTR, Tumor Registry Coordinator, co-chair of the “Sail into Survivorship” planning committee. “Our patients tell us that they look forward to the event each year – they enjoy the camaraderie so much.”
Vicky Dunlap, RTT, Radiation Oncology Technical Coordinator and co-chair of the “Sail into Survivorship” planning committee, adds, “It is quite inspiring to see all the people come together to celebrate and have a great day. When you hear the roll call for survivors, the clapping and applause for each person is very moving.”
The nautical theme came together several years ago, says Dunlap, as Shore Regional Cancer Program began to focus on helping people navigate all forms of cancer treatment then launching them into survivorship with many types of programs and services.
“The theme just clicked. I was having dinner at Suicide Bridge with some friends who also work at the Cancer Center,” says Dunlap, a sailing enthusiast. “I said to the man behind the counter how great it would be to have our survivors come out here.”
That man behind the counter happened to be Suicide Bridge Restaurant owner Craig Cropper.
“Craig really stepped in and helped us make it work. He has been a wonderful partner for this event,” says Dunlap.
More people are surviving cancer and living longer due to the advances in science and medicine. Tools for treating cancer include surgery, highly sophisticated radiation therapy and targeted chemotherapy.
“Generous donations have brought the latest technologies to the Shore Regional Cancer Program so that people can get state of the art treatment right here on the Eastern Shore,” says Brian Leutner, Director of Oncology Services for Shore Health System.
The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation estimates there are 12 million cancer survivors. This day provides an opportunity for all people living with a history of cancer to connect with each other, celebrate milestones, and recognize the healthcare providers, family and friends who have supported them along the way.
“This day gives our current patients and longtime survivors a great way to connect with each other that is away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,” adds Scott. “It is an honor to celebrate with them and to be part of that journey.”
For more information about the Shore Regional Cancer Program, call 410-820-6800 or visit www.shorehealth.org/services/cancercenter.
In photo: Staff from Shore Regional Cancer Center celebrate National Cancer Survivors Day on the dock at Suicide Bridge Restaurant in Hurlock.
In photo, above: Shore Regional Cancer Center staff man the registration table at “Sailing into Survivorship” day, held in conjunction each year with National Cancer Survivors Day. Pictured (left to right) are Kim Weinhold, RN, Chemotherapy Nurse.; Jeanie Scott, CTR, Tumor Registrar and co-chair of the “Sail into Survivorship” planning committee; Sharon Richter, BSN, RN, CCRC, Clinical Research Nurse; and Vicky Dunlap, RTT, Radiation Oncology Technical Coordinator and co-chair of the “Sail into Survivorship” planning committee.