Cancer Center Event Celebrates Survivors, Highlights Progress in Care

Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) Cancer Center held its thirty-fourth annual Celebration of Life event on June 8 at Centennial Complex on the university’s campus. This year’s theme, “Celebrate Life, Embrace Hope,” honored the resilience of cancer survivors while recognizing the vital role of caregivers, medical staff, and loved ones in every step of the healing journey.

Judy Chatigny, assistant vice president of the Loma Linda University Health Cancer Center, welcomed attendees, acknowledging the powerful sense of community and shared resilience that define this cherished annual tradition. “This celebration continues to hold such deep meaning year after year,” Chatigny said. “You are part of a powerful community made up of survivors, supporters, care teams, and loved ones who continue to walk this journey together.”

In addition to lunch, the event featured the inspiring story of Tanis Earle, a breast cancer survivor whose participation in a clinical trial not only led to her remission but also contributed to advancing the future of cancer research. Earle’s journey, which she refers to as a “cancer adventure,” was shared in a video.

Additionally, Mark Reeves, director of the Cancer Center, shared insights about LLUH’s expanding developments in cancer therapies. They include the rapid growth of Targeted Cancer Therapy programs, such as cell therapy, theranostics, and boron neutron capture therapy. At the same time, LLUH is currently the only place in the region for cell therapies, including CAR T, Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, and T Cell Receptor therapy. LLUH is also one of only a few places in California offering curative gene therapies for β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease.

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the Don Kroetz Courage to Care Award to two exceptional oncology nurses, Susanna Farrell and Rebecca Bakken.

Farrell, the inpatient honoree, began her journey at LLUH in 2020 as a registered nurse resident and discovered her passion for oncology nursing just a few years later. Since joining the oncology unit in 2022, Farrell has become an indispensable part of the team, not only completing rigorous training in chemotherapy, transplant, and cellular therapy but also serving as a mentor and trusted caregiver known for her humility and kindness. 

Bakken, the outpatient honoree, who has been with LLUH since 2002, views her work not just as a job but as a ministry. From a young age she felt a deep, faith-driven calling to serve others in the medical field, a purpose she embraced even as a child facing her own health challenges. Whether navigating major departmental changes or comforting patients through difficult diagnoses, she consistently offers wisdom, empathy, and strength.

As the celebration came to a close, Chatigny expressed heartfelt thanks to the Cancer Center team and especially to the survivors in attendance. “Your presence reminds us that life after cancer is not only possible: it is powerful,” she said. “Your resilience gives strength to those still in treatment. Your hope inspires our continued work in research and care.”

As the only academic cancer center in the region, LLUH Cancer Center provides complex, multidisciplinary cancer care through programs that combine state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, cutting-edge cancer treatments, a team of physicians, and support services in one location.

The original version of this story was posted on the Loma Linda University Health news site.