Handprints of Hope

In honor of National Cancer Survivor Day, one Local Cancer Center is celebrating survivors while encouraging those currently battling cancer

Today Anderson Regional Cancer Center began their Annual Handprint of Hope event where they invite cancer survivors to come out and put their handprints on a canvas to celebrate being cancer-free as well as to give hope to those that are currently battling cancer.

“We are beginning today our ninth annual handprints of hope. And this is our way of recognizing our survivors and honoring them. Yesterday was national cancer survivor day. And so, this is just a way we can honor our survivors and be an encouragement to those who are currently going through treatment,” said Ginny Ruffin-Anderson’s Oncology Social Worker.

Ruffin says she has seen some patients in the past who were 20- 30-year survivors and says that each year they see an increase in the amount of handprint on the canvases.

“You know, sometimes people think when they get a cancer diagnosis, life is over. We end up with folks that are 20, 30-year survivors that come and put their handprint on the canvas. That's just a huge, huge encouragement to those that are going through treatment, “said Ruffin.

Handprints of Hope allows anyone that’s a cancer Survivor even if you weren’t treated at Anderson to do a handprint and Ruffin says they consider survivorship from the moment of diagnosis.

Ruffin said,” I love to hear people's stories. People come and want to tell me what they've been through and where they are. And so, it's an encouragement, not only to me but to everybody that comes.”

Some survivors said they are always excited to participate in Handprints of Hope to bring encouragement to others.

“It feels great to be a part of this. I’m just thankful for everybody here,” said Francie Parker, a 4-year cancer survivor.

Tina Thead , a 1-year cancer survivor says, “It's great. It's amazing. It gives people hope to see that there's a future that which cancer can be cured.”

Handprints of Hope will be taking place every day at Anderson Cancer Center until Thursday, June 9th from 8 am until 4 pm.