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Second Sunday of the month of June, we celebrated cancer survivor day. On this occasion, I came in direct touch with cancer survivos’ feeling and sufferings. I am largely moved by how well United States serves its 12-million strong community, if the picture I witnessed represents the larger picture of the nation.

One of the survivors, in her 70s, narrated her story. She was jobless when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was double whammy for her, especially when she was jobless. She recounted her story depicting her courage and strong will power. Optimism was radiating from her overall personality.

The story which touched me most was of 20 year old lung cancer survivor. He was diagnosed of cancer 2 years back. When I had personal talk with him, he said” I gave my life to Jesus”. Yes spirituality helps a lot, and his firm belief in Jesus further justify that. When he was diagnosed, obviously , his reaction was what every human is naturally to have. He said his mom,” I have a bad luck”. Her mom gave her enough courage and motivating words. Then I had brief conversation with a lady, who was detected of ovarian cancer, when she was in Europe. She just recently undergone surgery for tumor, but fr5om her outlook, no one could imagine she had ovarian cancer.

Although come of cancers are really dreadful and have bad prognosis, the magic word of “HOPE” can make a big difference. Nothing is lost till the hope is lost. Optimism, faith in God and faith in oneself can float any ship.

The way science is advancing, medical science is making strides; I believe days are not far when cancer will be treated in Out Patient Department (OPD).

After attending the event, I am quiet touched by and remembering the quote from Mohammad Ali (boxing champion). “Don’t count the days, make the days count.”