The John Theurer Cancer Center to host Second Annual Celebrating Life and Liberty cancer survivor event

The John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center announced that thousands of cancer survivors and caregivers will celebrate life, liberty and new beginnings with the ultimate symbol of freedom close by – the Statue of Liberty. This special event will take place on Sunday, September 26 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at Liberty State Park, NJ.

"The John Theurer Cancer Center provides extraordinary care beyond the medical center's walls. This event is an extension of the compassionate care and concern for the well-being of our patients and their families," said Robert C. Garrett of Morris Township, president and chief executive officer of Hackensack University Medical Center.

The Second Annual Celebrating Life and Liberty cancer survivor event serves as an important reminder that just like the 12 million immigrants greeted by the Statue of Liberty and the promise of a new life, today nearly 12 million Americans have survived a very different, but equally long and difficult journey -- cancer.

"Celebrating Life and Liberty is an opportunity for thousands of our cancer survivors to support and inspire one another," said Andre Goy, M.D., M.S. deputy director and chief of lymphoma of the John Theurer Cancer Center. "Survivorship is one of the core values of our program. Life after cancer comes with both rejuvenation and a new set of challenges. This event allows patients to come together as they celebrate freedom from cancer."

Celebrating Life and Liberty is a free event open to any cancer patient or cancer survivor that has been treated at the John Theurer Cancer Center. This year, guest of honor Helena Theurer, wife of the late John Theurer, will kick-off the day addressing cancer survivors with words of inspiration.  

"So many people are touched by cancer," said Mrs. Theurer. "I am proud to be a part of the effort to build the finest Cancer Center in the country. Last year more than 1,000 people joined us for this extraordinary event that commemorated the challenging journey these patients have overcome. We are thrilled to build upon the success of last year by inviting more cancer survivors for an even greater celebration."

Following the opening ceremony, attendees are invited to participate in a wide-range of interactive workshops, such as Laughter Yoga, Staying Fit, Qigong for Health & Healing, make-up and wig demos, quilting, chair massages, inspirational jewelry making, mask collaging, and more. Singing and dancing to live music by The Infernos will accompany these activities. And in the true spirit of life and liberty, inspirational performances by John Theurer Cancer Center survivors will instill strength in others.