Cancer survivors share support, journeys at event today at mall

BOARDMAN

If practical advice could be given to those who receive the often devastating news of a cancer diagnosis and their loved ones, it would be to maintain a positive attitude, stay strong, keep the faith and hold onto hope.

Debbie Ziccardi, Sandra Turnage and Sue Calautti can easily attest to the value of taking such steps.

“I was diagnosed with lung and rectal cancer at the same time,” recalled Turnage, of Youngstown. “I was totally surprised because there were no symptoms.”

Despite having been handed such frightening news in May 2010, Turnage has become a six-year cancer survivor. She was among an estimated 70 survivors of the disease who attended Saturday’s first Cancer Survivor Day at Southern Park Mall.

Hosting the three-hour informational gathering was the American Cancer Society of Northeast Ohio in conjunction with the mall. Offering a series of activities and presentations were Mercy Health, Yellow Brick Place, the ACS and the YMCA.

The event was to celebrate those who have overcome the disease, along with their caretakers and loved ones, noted Renee Walker, community manager for the ACS’ East Central Division in Canfield.

Read more about the event in Sunday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.