The Rocca Sisters Blog

On Thursday, February 4^th, the world will unite to spread the message that ‘We can. I can’ help prevent and fight cancer.  World Cancer Day 2016 aims to save millions of preventable deaths each year by raising awareness and education about this devastating disease that has affected so many of us in one way or another.

Currently, 8.2 million people die from cancer worldwide every year, out of which, 4 million people die prematurely (aged 30-69)*.  That is such a staggering statistic!  A vital part of striving to conquer cancer is awareness. Learning and paying attention to the tell-tale symptoms is incredibly important along with regular checkups and physicals.  An integral part of winning the battle is early detection and prevention.

The 2016 World Cancer Day theme, ‘We Can. I can’, explores how everyone – as a collective or as individuals – can do their part to reduce the global burden of cancer. This is a day of reflection and action – whether that is running your own campaign, attending an event, donating or simply sharing your story, raise your voice and join the others around the world to push for greater awareness.

Like many in our community, we ourselves have been touched and greatly impacted by Cancer. In 2004, our Mom was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer by chance during a routine checkup.  Mom’s cancer was already in an advanced stage.  With hope, determination, support from family & friends, and a strong faith she fought hard for five years until she lost her battle. We still cherish the years we had with our mom and like everyone who loses a loved one, our time was cut far too short. We yearn to embrace her each and every day, but we continue to fight the war against cancer in her honour.

Life gets busy, but it is so important to make time for regular checkups and physicals – and encourage your family and friends to do the same. Through prevention and early detection we can help save lives. Get involved, learn and share.  To learn more about our story and our Cancer Initiatives, please visit our website, www.roccasisters.ca.

We invite you to join the World Cancer Day ‘Talking Hands’ Social Media campaign on Feb. 4^th.  Write a supportive message on your hand using the ‘We can. I can’ theme.  Then take a picture of the message and share it on social media.  We would love to see your messages, so please tag The Rocca Sisters & Associates in your posts.  For more information on this campaign, please visit www.worldcancerday.org.

SOURCE: worldcancerday.org/about