World-renowned oncologist Dr. Andrew C. von Eschenbach will be the keynote speaker at CanCare’s tenth annual Survivors Day luncheon Sunday, June 6, 12:30 p.m. at the Hilton Americas – Houston, 1600 Lamar Street. Ginger Blanton and Donna Lewis co-chair the event that commemorates National Cancer Survivors Day. Linda Lorelle anchor with KPRC-TV will serve as this year’s Mistress of Ceremonies. More than 700 guests are expected to attend. Reservations begin at $60 per person, with a discount available for trained and certified CanCare volunteers.
Andrew C. von Eschenbach, M.D. is the Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and a nationally recognized urologic surgeon. His distinguished career as a key leader in the fight against cancer spans three decades that began in Houston and is fueled by a passionate commitment to rapidly translate the fruits of scientific discovery to all who are in need. Dr. von Eschenbach arrived at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center as a urologic oncology fellow in 1976 and held several positions until his departure in January 2002, at which time he was director of both the Genitourinary Cancer Center and the Prostate Cancer Research Program. He has dedicated his professional life to the eradication of the disease, exemplifying what it means to enhance the quality of life for those living with, through, and beyond cancer. Dr. von Eschenbach, himself a survivor of melanoma and prostate cancers, has had an impact on the fight against cancer that extends beyond the research, clinical, and academic communities.
Marking its 10th anniversary of celebrating cancer survivorship, the event is a local tribute to National Cancer Survivors Day, a day to foster awareness of cancer, and celebrate life and hope after a cancer diagnosis. There are an estimated 100,000 cancer survivors in the Houston and surrounding communities. A cancer survivor is anyone living with a history of cancer, from the time of diagnosis through the remainder of life.
A feature of the luncheon will be a dramatic lighting of hundreds of “Candles of Hope”, honoring survivors and remembering those who have been challenged by cancer. In addition, past luncheon chairs will be honored for their support of CanCare.
CanCare is an interfaith non-profit cancer support network providing one-on-one long-term emotional support to cancer patients and their families. CanCare’s trained volunteers are cancer survivors providing friendship, hope, and encouragement to cancer patients. Since its founding in 1990, CanCare has provided support to more than 100,000 people through its program services. Rooted in the religious community, CanCare’s services are supported by 68 Houston area congregations, seven hospitals and nine corporations.
Reservations for the June 6 Survivors Day Luncheon can be made by contacting CanCare or call 713-461-0028. To volunteer or for information about CanCare, call 713-461-0028 or visit CanCare