Cancer survivors celebrate life

BY ALEXA MAE ASPERIN

Tuesday, November 24, 2009 3:09 PM EST

Mixed flowers adorned violet-colored tables with an assortment of delectable foods, setting the ambiance for the “Celebration of Life” event for cancer survivors at the Queens Cancer Center at Queens Hospital Center (QHC).

“The purpose of this gathering is to commemorate the triumph of our patients in overcoming cancer,” said George M. Proctor, executive director of QHC, during the event on Friday, November 20.

The event, held in the hospital’s atrium, is the sixth annual of its kind honoring cancer survivors. Special guests included community officials and medical staff in addition to the center’s patients and their guests.

“I’m happy to be here,” said Teresa Celestino of Briarwood, a breast cancer survivor, who just recently finished medical treatment. “[I am] now cancer free and it feels great.”

Daniel Kennedy, star of the daytime soap opera “All My Children,” showed his support by attending the event and even signing autographs for excited fans.

“It’s wonderful to be a part of this event honoring the survivors,” said Kennedy. “I also have cancer survivors in my family, so this celebration is a victory for the health care professionals and the patients as well.” Kennedy also added that the hospital was “gorgeous, warm and friendly” and that he enjoyed the celebration.

Local artist Brian Kirhagis was also present, displaying his artwork at the front of the stage. Kirhagis, a self-taught artist, also hosted an interactive art event, inviting the participation of all attendees to help him make the mural.

“I’m encouraging the survivors and everyone else to help me paint a survivor painting,” said Kirhagis. “I believe everyone has an artist inside of them. We pick the colors together and you draw whatever comes from your heart.”

Kirhagis added that he hoped the piece would inspire others and bring more people into art. Upon completion, the finished piece will be displayed in the cancer center.

Rhythm-and-blues signing group “The Persuaders” entertained attendees. Chemotherapy nurse Merriam Custodio and her accompanying dance troop also performed a praise dance.

“Since I arrived at the Queens Cancer Center eight years ago, I have been dedicated to providing the very best cancer care to the people of this community,” said Dr. M. Margaret Kennedy, the center’s director. “I consider it my personal mission to help eradicate all cancers. At the Queens Cancer Center, our community can take advantage of cancer screenings and the best treatment options right in their own neighborhood.”

To conclude the event, testimonials were given by cancer survivors, bringing tears to the eyes of many.

“I want to thank the doctors and staff and nurses from all of my heart for what they have done to help me and my wife,” said one survivor. “I wish them all a long life.”

Marjorie Kim, a breast cancer survivor, also said that she experienced many surgeries and chemotherapy, but remained hopeful.

“I’ve had hundreds of tumors removed from me, and I’m here, and I’m alive. Thank you so much QHC. You saved my life,” she said.

THE COURIER/Photos by Alexa Mae Asperin
Daniel Kennedy, star of the daytime soap opera “All My Children,” spoke to the crowd at Queens Hospital Center during its “Celebration of Life” event honoring cancer survivors.