National Cancer Survivors Day – Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Federation Friday: Volume 1, Issue 48 - May 31, 2019

National Cancer Survivors Day 

June 2nd is National Cancer Survivors Day. It is an annual Celebration of Life that is held in hundreds of communities nationwide, and around the world, on the first Sunday in June. It is a celebration for those who have survived, an inspiration for those recently diagnosed, a gathering of support for families, and an outreach to the community. 

On National Cancer Survivors Day, thousands gather across the globe to honor cancer survivors and to show the world that life after a cancer diagnosis can be fruitful, rewarding, and even inspiring. 

It is a day for EVERYONE. We ALL have been touched by this terrible health problem—whether you are a survivor, a family member, a friend, or a medical professional this day provides an opportunity to connect with each other and to celebrate milestones with others battling the disease. It is an opportunity to promote more resources, research, and survivor-friendly legislation to improve cancer survivors’ quality of life. 

To locate an event near you, contact your local cancer treatment center, hospital, or American Cancer Society office. 

Although anyone can organize and promote a survivors day, a great deal of support and assistance in getting started can be obtained from the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation at https://www.ncsd.org/organize-an-event or just go online to NCSD. There you will find many ideas to celebrate and promote your Day. Think about a survivors’ day parade, candle lighting, fundraising run/walk, breakfast, or a local health fair. 

Not only as individuals, but as GFWC Clubs, WE can make a difference as we CELEBRATE WOMEN. 


Over 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. It is the most common cancer in the US, and it’s one of the most preventable forms of cancer. At least 85% of cases of skin cancer are associated with overexposure to the sun. 

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Make taking care of your skin part of your daily routine. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using an SPF15 sunscreen or higher as a start. Here is the full list: 

  • Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. 
  • Don’t get sunburned. 
  • Avoid tanning and never use UV tanning beds. 
  • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. 
  • Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 
  • Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. 
  • Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months. 
  • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month. 
  • See a dermatologist at least once a year for an exam. 

https://www.skincancer.org/ 

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