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In the News: Survivors' Day

Celebrate that amazing heartbeat of yours at the Cancer Center's annual Survivors' Day Sunday, June 22, from 1-3:30 p.m., in Washtenaw Community College's Morris Lawrence Building. All people who have been diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives -- regardless of whether they are currently in treatment -- are invited to celebrate Survivors' Day June 22. Family and friends are welcome, too.

Christine Stevens, founder of UpBeat Drum Circles and director of music therapy and wellness programs for Remo Drum Co., will be on hand to talk about how you can use rhythm and music to improve your health and well-being.

"We're wired for rhythm. Our hearts are beating. We're walking to a beat. We're breathing to a beat. Our neurons are firing in a synchronized rhythm," Stevens said. "We're already a symphony."

Studies have shown music therapy is effective in reducing anxiety, pain and nausea, while improving communication, expression and quality of life. A recent study showed drumming, in particular, may improve immune system response, Stevens said.

Survivors, families and friends will have an opportunity to experience the benefits of music therapy in a drum circle on June 22. A wide range of percussion instruments will be provided to those who would like to use them.

"We know drumming can be relaxing and energizing at the same time," said Megan Gunnell, the Cancer Center's music therapist. "Drumming has been used for thousands of years to improve health. Why not use it today?"

Survivors' Day is designed to introduce participants to new ideas, said Maxine Solvay, a community outreach coordinator at the Cancer Center. In addition to the drum circle, Stevens will offer workshops to smaller groups throughout the day. Representatives from the community will be on hand for a resource fair as well. Solvay, a cancer survivor herself, has coordinated Survivors' Day since 1997.

"I've seen a lot of people use this event as a benchmark in their lives," Solvay said. "It's a chance for people to bring their families and really celebrate life in light of what they've been through."

Related Resources

To learn more about this year's event, visit the Survivors' Day Web page or call Catricia Thomas at 734-998-7071.

To learn more about the benefits of music therapy, click here.

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What kinds of stories would you like to reading in Thrive? What type of advice do you think would be helpful? Do you have tips for other patients or caregivers? Let us know. Email us at ThriveMagazine@med.umich.edu

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