Finding the Power Within to Fight Cancer

Rene Roquemore has loved comic books, especially ones focused on superheroes, since he was a kid, admiring the fictional characters’ strength and resilience. And when Rene was diagnosed with colorectal cancer last September, he wanted to embody those same characteristics while undergoing treatment. “If I were a superhero I’d be called ‘Captain Resilient.’ My description would say something like: because of his faith and belief in the power of prayer, he can overcome any adversity…he can withstand and recover quickly from whatever the evil ‘Cancer Man’ throws his way,” Rene exclaimed. When Rene was undergoing treatment he looked forward to participating in the Cancer Center’s survivorship programs to help raise his spirits. “Even the strongest of superheroes has a team or sidekick to help them, the doctors and survivorship group was part of mine,” he said. “Mindful meditation helped me learn to manage my emotions; I still meditate every morning when I wake up and it helps me prepare for my day.” The Cancer Center offers survivorship programs to help patients and caregivers cope with the emotional and physical strains that can be experienced throughout the cancer journey. The integrative programs combine research-based therapy with traditional cancer care, aimed at alleviating the side effects of cancer treatment and improving overall well-being. As we celebrate National Cancer Survivor Month, Rene encourages other survivors to try some of the survivorship programs the Cancer Center offers.

“Some days I felt like Superman and other times I didn’t know how I would make it through the day, but when I participated in survivorship programs they instantly lifted my spirits and I knew I could continue on being Captain Resilient.”

All Cancer Center survivorship events are free and open to the public, thanks to the generosity of the community. For more information, visit marybirdlake.org/thrive.