Kansas City VA Medical Center

On June 4, 2012, KCVAMC celebrated Cancer Survivors Day at the Gazebo in the Cancer Survivor Park.  Approximately 400 survivors and their loved ones attended the event.  The Jackson County 5th District VFW Honor Guard posted the colors and led all in the pledge of allegiance.  Master of Ceremonies was Mike Shanin (local radio talk show host).  Jazz music was provided by Veteran/Survivor Daniel Deluca and his band & 15 year old soloist Ryan Ganaban sang.  Veteran Mark Steele shared his story about the loving support of family and faith in God as integral elements in survival of cancer.  Dr. David Bodensteiner hematologist/oncologist at KCVAMC spoke about his cancer journey and celebration of 8 years in remission. Mike Shanin invited all to celebrate with their breath of life by blowing bubbles at the end of the ceremony.

By Janet Silke-Koval