Cancer Survivors Celebrate Life While Advocating for Awareness

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – June is Cancer Survivors Month, and one local support group is using the occasion to celebrate life, honor survivors, and raise awareness about the challenges many cancer patients continue to face.

The Gennie Dean Caring & Sharing Cancer Support Group is marking the occasion with a series of events, including a family fun day, church service, hope walk, sip and paint, and a special luncheon for survivors and their families.

The group is headed by president Duquesa Dean.

Duquesa Dean – President, Gennie Dean Caring & Sharing Cancer Support Group

“ On the 5th of June from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This is a free event for children with cancer, cancer patients, and survivors with children as well. We have a church service on June 7th. On the 13th of June, we are hosting our hope walk.”

The third annual hope walk is scheduled for June 13th at Goodman’s Bay, which will honor late board member Anita Rolle.

For 19-year-old breast cancer survivor and board member Judy Ann Lundy-Miller, the month is also a reminder of the challenges survivors face long after treatment ends.

Judy Ann Lundy-Miller – Cancer Survior

“ We hear time and time again that cancer is not a death sentence. And I think life really begins once you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, because it gives you a chance to reorganize your life.

“It gives you a chance to smile more and frown less. It gives you a chance to celebrate every moment.”

The group continues to see a growing demand for financial assistance, pantry support, education and counseling services.

The demand has also attracted the support of corporate Bahamas.

Marketing Director of A-Sure Win Gaming, Anthony Coakley, says his organization increased its support, after seeing the difference firsthand.

“ When we actually went out and attended the event and saw the level of life that was at that event, the survivors, and just how robust and vibrant and passionate they all were in supporting each other.”

“And also in memory of those that were in the fight but did not make it – we made the conscious decision right then and there that we would be back again,” Coakely said.

Lundy-Miller is also encouraging those with a recent diagnosis not to lose hope.

She knows first hand that support systems, faith, and early detection can make all the difference.

Judy Ann Lundy-Miller – Cancer Survior

“Immediately when persons hear that, they think of death, you know? And so for me, I would say as a survivor, you have to dig so deep and put your hand in your kimber and say, “I’m gonna give the devil the fight of his life.” Being a child of God made the biggest difference in my life, and I don’t shy away from that.”

“Knowing God and his word, knowing that whatever he allows to come in my life, I can get through it.”