BY: KUWARJEET SINGH ARORA

On Sunday, June 6, 2021, this day marks the 34th annual National Cancer Survivors Day.

People around the world will globally recognize cancer survivors while raising awareness of the continuing challenges that they have to face. Most importantly, they will celebrate their lives.

It is further important to celebrate this day in today’s world. Since the pandemic has started, those with cancer and even cancer survivors are among the most vulnerable individuals who can get COVID-19. The lockdown measures have also made it harder for cancer patients to access vital screening and care.

A Downsview resident who was in her fifties, was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma, which is a type of breast cancer in the mammary glands.

She says, “My experience was not that bad, I had two lumpectomies and radiation therapy yet, no chemotherapy.”

Her parents, especially her mom, were very upset when they found out about the cancer, as there is no history of breast cancer in their family.

To the readers, she says “having cancer is an attitude, I was determined to beat it and I did beat it.”

She is a proud survivor who already got her COVID-19 vaccine. Today we celebrate her life, all the other cancer survivors, and people who are fighting this fight during this pandemic.

This topic is very close to my heart since I am a childhood Cancer Survivor with long-term side effects and check-ups.

“Even though a big chunk of my childhood was spent in hospital visits or in self-isolation I feel like I am happy to be alive today. This pandemic has made everyone appreciate their lives and has taught us humans the lesson to love and celebrate our lives.” says Kuwarjeet.