A gathering of over 100 cancer survivors was met with applause and cheers at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital's Cancer Survivor Celebration event last week. This marked the first such celebration since the pandemic, serving as a reminder of patients' strength and resilience while encouraging them to continue moving forward.
“A cancer diagnosis is a life changing event, but life goes on,” stated Dr. Michael Siedow to those in attendance. “The hair grows back.”
Radiation and medical oncologists from Mansfield Hospital took the opportunity to reconnect with patients, some of whom have become friends over time.
Among those still fighting her battle is Laura Demarest. “I'm very blessed,” she expressed.
Despite battling stage four breast cancer, Demarest maintains an optimistic outlook. “Even though I’m a stage four, I’ve been a stage four cancer for almost two years,” she said. “I’m still doing well. Still doing the things I love to do in life. Traveling, going places, have hobbies. I’m retired now so, life is sweet.”
Demarest attributes her current state not only to her positive outlook but also to the support from her doctors whom she holds in high regard. Rather than focusing on an end, she looks toward the future.
“The treatments that are happening, you hear of every week,” Demarest noted. “This week, I was listening to the news, and they talked about a vaccine for breast cancer.”