The 19th annual Survivors Day event was held Sunday, Sept. 18 in the new Academic Rotunda at UConn Health. Abigail O’Brien, senior director of development for the UConn Foundation and a breast cancer survivor, kicked off the morning by inspiring guests to celebrate and “live life like you’re dying.”  She introduced Dr. Susan Tannenbaum, division chief of hematology oncology in the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Tannenbaum reminded the audience to reflect on not only the patients as survivors but the caregivers as survivors who are strong and resilient and are in the fight together with patients. Close to 200 survivors with their caregivers, family, faculty and support staff enjoyed brunch before creating beautiful drawings of a butterfly – a symbol of endurance, change, hope and life. The art piece was made possible by CT Art School in South Windsor, which had six instructors on staff to help narrate and assist with the drawing. Attendees also got a chance to paint portions of a mural that will later be displayed in the cancer center.  The event ended with nearly each survivor receiving a basket or gift card compliments of the generous UConn community.

 

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