The hospitals of Community Healthcare System and the Cancer Resource Centre are taking their local celebration of National Cancer Survivors Day on the road, June 6, to the 49’er Drive-In Theatre. Cancer Survivors Day® is a national celebration of life for those who have survived cancer, the newly diagnosed who are on their journey of survivorship and loved ones who support individuals diagnosed with cancer.
“We are proud to offer this event because it allows us to celebrate those who have won the battle against cancer and share our support with those who are still in the fight,” said Leo Correa, CEO, St. Catherine Hospital.
The free outdoor event will take place 1 to 3 p.m., thanks to the generous donation of 49’er Drive-In owner Mike Cotton. It features DJ music donated by MB Events, a mind-body-spirit demonstration, car-decorating contest, games and prizes. A box lunch and one free dessert from Cute as a Cupcake! or a refreshment from Kona Ice® truck will be served to guests.
Colon cancer survivor Rex Richards, president of Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, will offer a message of hope and inspiration to the celebrants.
Cancer care administrators, healthcare staff and chief executives from the Cancer Resource Centre, Cancer Research Foundation, Inc., and the hospitals of Community Healthcare System: Community Hospital,
St. Catherine Hospital, St. Mary Medical Center and Community Stroke & Rehabilitation Center, will be on hand to greet, congratulate and address the group.
Community Healthcare System is coming together with cancer patients, survivors and caregivers across Northwest Indiana to share stories of hope and empowerment, said Marie Duval Macke, Cancer Care Services administrator.
“Hosting this celebration corresponds with our mission of unity when it comes to cancer care,” said Janice Ryba, CEO, St. Mary Medical Center.
“Together, our network of acute and specialty care hospitals look forward to this national day to celebrate cancer patients’, survivors’ and caregivers’ strength and victory,” said Craig Bolda, vice president of Acute Rehabilitation Services for Community Healthcare System, Administrator, Community Stroke & Rehabilitation Center.
“We welcome you to join with us in this day of celebration,” said Luis F. Molina, CEO, Community Hospital.
Attendance is limited to 100 registered guests. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed. Masks and social distancing will be required. Vehicles will be spaced out. Guests will be asked to picnic around their vehicles and bring their own lawn chairs.
To register, call 219-836-3477 by May 25. The drive-in theater parking lot, located at 675 N. Calumet Ave., in Valparaiso, opens at 12:30 p.m. for the event.
To learn more about the Cancer Resource Centre in Munster, visit www.cancerresourcecentre.com. For information on cancer care at the hospitals of Community Healthcare System, visit, comhs.org/services/cancer-care