Earlier this month, residents of Tyler, Texas, participated in a city-wide celebration of local cancer survivors and their birthdays. The luau-themed event was part of the American Cancer Society’s Survivor Birthday Bash, which led Mayor Martin Heines to proclaim June 6, 2019, as Cancer Survivor Day in Tyler.
“As a patient-centered organization, it’s an honor to celebrate our survivors right here in Tyler,” said Dr. Donald Richards of Texas Oncology–Tyler. “Between clinical trials and leading-edge treatment options, we’re proud our patients can receive care close to their homes and support systems.”
The event was hosted in conjunction with several local organizations, including Texas Oncology–Tyler, who provided gift bags to attendees to commemorate the event. Roughly 60 survivors and more than 100 guests took part in the celebration, participating in a variety of activities including a hula hoop contest, limbo, beach bingo, painting, and more.
See how survivors and supporters celebrated below.
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From left to right: Texas Oncology–Tyler employees Kenneth Wuerch, practice director; Vicki Wright, social worker; Jill Dickerson, nurse manager; and Amy Bradbery, nurse practitioner; posing in the luau-themed photo booth at the event.
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Volunteers from the American Cancer Society (including Texas Oncology staff) hosted the event. Activities included beach bingo, limbo, painting, hula hoop contests, and pin the tail on the mermaid.
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With more than 100 people in attendance, the Survivor Birthday Bash was packed with survivors, caregivers, and staff.