Cancer survivors show thanks with balloon release
Two dozen local cancer survivors along with many of their family members sent more then 100 balloons cascading upward Sunday, representing a heartfelt thanks to God for the gift of more life.
Just like this time last year, the ascending balloons became a symbol of gratitude to God during the local second annual National Cancer Survivors Day Celebration presented by the W. Temple Webber Cancer Center, part of CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System.
The event, which included inspirational testimonies from local cancer survivors, honors and acknowledges cancer survivors.
“The fact that there’s a storm about to hit outside reminds us all that we are here to ride the storm of life out with you when cancer comes into your life,” said Yolanda Bone, a nurse practitioner and survivorship program leader. “Survivorship starts with the first day of being diagnosed.”
Cancer survivor Otis Scott said he will never forget the warmth and friendship he
experienced from all those at the center.
“All those working there were very good, professional people,” Scott said. “I’ve never been in any hospital or medical building that treated me as nice as the people here.”
Andy Shoptaw, diagnosed with the blood cancer mulitple myeloma, remembers having to undergo chemotherapy for nine months.
“After spending more seven weeks in Little Rock to recover (from chemotherapy) I got to come back home and I realized there are three things you need to survive—you need faith in God, you need family and friends and finally, you need to keep a very positive attitude,” she said.
For Brandon Snyder, surviving colon-rectal cancer brought him to a soul-saving permanent relationship with Jesus Christ.
“With every single breath, I give thanks to God,” Snyder said. “It’s not just about surviving, it’s now about who you can bring with you as a witness for the man on the cross.”