With all the uncertainty in today’s world – gas shortages, financial institution crashes, and government bailouts – who has time to celebrate being alive? About 2,500 cancer survivors and their families and friends, that’s who.
The Magic of Life Foundation and the physicians and staff of Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) proudly presented the 18th annual Magic of Life Celebration for Cancer Survivors (MOL) Sunday, September 28, at Turner Field.
The event is the largest cancer survivor event in the South and gives survivors a chance to not only celebrate their triumph over the disease, but also share stories of love and inspiration with others who have walked in their shoes and mingle with their physicians in a fun, informal setting.
Dr. Bruce Feinberg, President/CEO of GCS, who launched the first MOL in 1991 in the Stemmer parking lot with a small crowd, a few packs of hot dogs, and a grill, is proud of what MOL has become and what it means to the survivors.
“As the number of cancer survivors in America grows, so does Magic of Life,” Feinberg said. “We have people come from all over Georgia – Macon, Blue Ridge, Athens, Hawkinsville – just for the opportunity to celebrate survivorship with people they’ve never met before but who are now their lifelong brothers and sisters.”
Cancer survivors and a guest enjoyed a free lunch, entrance to the park, and access to park activities, including a visit to the Braves museum, a tour of the clubhouse and locker rooms, live music, a magic show, massage therapy, and much more. Survivors also received a free commemorative t-shirt with a design by Florence Baldwin, this year’s chosen artist, who was at the event autographing t-shirts.
“We’re proud to sponsor an event that gives cancer survivors a chance to join together and celebrate their achievements and successes in the fight against the disease,” said Dr. Wendy Lenz, COO of GCS and Chair and Executive Director of the Magic of Life Foundation. “The event continues to be unbelievably successful, and we’re already looking forward to next year.”