Published on June 06, 2024
Owensboro Health Celebrates Cancer Survivors’ Day
This past week, the Owensboro Health Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center took a moment to pause and celebrate an incredibly important occasion – Cancer Survivor's Day. A series of special activities were held to honor and uplift those who have bravely battled cancer, emphasizing joy, resilience, and community support.
The center went above and beyond to ensure the day was filled with warmth and recognition for the survivors. To spread cheer, they passed out thoughtfully prepared goodie bags, which included Owensboro Health branded swag, delicious cookies, and charming Cancer Support for All pinwheels. Additionally, warrior t-shirts were distributed, allowing many survivors to wear their strength and courage proudly.
A particularly heartfelt contribution came from Ginny Layman, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Outpatient Oncology, who has dedicated 15 years of service to Owensboro Health. Understanding the profound impact of a sense of community and recognition on a patient's journey, Layman created an 8x12 foot 'Survivor Strong' photo backdrop. This initiative allowed survivors to commemorate their journey and strength in a visually empowering way throughout the week.
Layman shared her reflections on her role and her profound experience working closely with cancer patients and their families. She highlighted the challenges that come with the emotional toll of witnessing suffering and the deep sense of fulfillment derived from making meaningful connections and offering compassionate support. “The best part about my job is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families,” Layman expressed, acknowledging the mixed emotions that her position entails. “The emotional strain is real, but so is the reward of being part of a supportive, passionate team that comes together to uplift patients through their most challenging times.”
Her creation of the Survivor's Day backdrop was more than just a decorative addition; it symbolized hope, perseverance, and solidarity. “It has been heartwarming to hear of all the survivors who have taken their photos with something I created myself,” she noted, sharing the gratitude and connection this project fostered.
Owensboro Health's commitment to treating and celebrating cancer survivors underscores the organization’s recognition of the journey of healing and recovery. This event, through gestures big and small, conveyed a powerful message of hope and community strength. It served as a reminder that while the battle against cancer is undoubtedly tough, the support and love surrounding survivors are even more formidable.
To learn more about cancer care at Owensboro Health, visit OwensboroHealth.org/Cancer
About Owensboro Health
Owensboro Health is a nonprofit health system with a mission to heal the sick and to improve the health of the communities it serves in Kentucky and Indiana. The system includes Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, nationally recognized for design, architecture and engineering; Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital; Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center; the Owensboro Health Medical Group comprised of over 350 providers at more than 30 locations; three outpatient Healthplex facilities, a certified medical fitness facility, the Healthpark; a weight management program, and the Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center.
On average each year, we have more than 19,000 inpatient admissions, deliver 2,000 babies and provide the region’s only Level III NICU. Owensboro Health physicians perform nearly 33,000 surgical procedures, including nearly 150 open-heart surgeries. Our physicians and staff have 90,000 Emergency Department visits and more than 1.25 million outpatient visits annually. Visit our home page for more information.