Celebrate Cancer Survivors!

June 7 ^th is Cancer Survivors Day, a day to celebrate those who have survived cancer and now serve as an inspiration for the recently diagnosed. It is a time for cancer survivors to share their stories to help raise awareness about cancer and also to show support for family, friends and caregivers who have accompanied survivors on their journeys.

Everyone diagnosed with cancer is a survivor . According to the American Cancer Society , there are more than 14.5 million cancer survivors in the United States. The majority, 64 perc ent, were diagnosed five or more years ago, with 15 percent diagnosed 20 or more years ago, according to the Cancer Trends Progress Report .

Early detection is a key factor in survivor numbers, especially for those diagnosed and treated early for cancers of the colon, breast, uterine cervix, and lung. With advancements in detection and treatment, two out of every three people with cancer today are expected to live at least five years after diagnosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) .

While completing treatment and reaching survivorship are causes for celebration, survivors can also face challenges transitioning to life with a new normal . From coping with fear of recurrence to rehabilitating the body after treatment, survivors require courage, confidence and a strong support network. Sarah Cannon's nurse navigators work with survivors to create a survivorship care plan complete with information and resources tailored specifically to their treatment plan to help give them peace of mind and stay healthy.

Programs such as the STAR Program, which is available through Sarah Cannon at Medical City Dallas Hospital, help survivors get the physical rehabilitation they need after they complete treatment. Created by Oncology Rehab Partners , the program provides patients with rehab programs specific to their cancer and treatment to help restore their bodies and equip them with a wellness plan for their transition.

"The STAR Program implements evidenced-based protocols to address many side effects of cancer treatments," said Susan Woods, MBA, BSN, RN, Regional Vice President, Oncology Services HCA/Sarah Cannon. "The STAR Program helps patients get back on their feet after rigorous cancer treatments and gives them the tools and resources they need to take care of their bodies."

Be part of this year's Cancer Survivors Day. On June 7 ^th , share your #SurvivorSelfie using the hashtag along with the number of years you have been a survivor and tag the place where you received your care. By raising awareness and celebrating survivorship, you can help encourage fellow survivors and advance the fight against cancer.

For more information and resources on survivorship from Sarah Cannon, read the Survivorship Handbook here .