DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) —  Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois, Decatur Memorial Hospital and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital celebrated National Cancer Survivors Day in Fairview Park. The event Saturday welcomed survivors and their families to enjoy music by Pizzazz and free meals from Notorious P.I.G.. 

Rachael Ward, Community Outreach Coordinator with DMH, said that the celebration was for all survivors. "Whether they have, had five years cancer free or they're still fighting right now, they're a survivor, and we're just here to celebrate them and let them know that we care, even outside of the hospital walls." Ward said.

Dawn Rose was diagnosed with Stage 4 Uterine Cancer; this is her third year at the celebration. "I think it's really important to, not take a day for granted. Because we're not promised days." she said.

Dawn says she values the event, not only to visit with providers outside the hospital setting, but to also foster community.  "I've always said it's not a community you're volunteering to sign up for. But once you're a part of it, it's it's very helpful to have people around you, that have walked or walking through." she explained. "At the same time, you can turn around and help people that are just recently diagnosed."

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