"Illness is part of our history; hope and courage will write the next chapters." The stories of two cancer survivors powerfully illustrate what it means to be “back in the thick of life” after an existential crisis. On June 13, 2026, the University Cancer Center, Comprehensive Cancer Center Zurich (CCCZ), celebrated its fifth Cancer Survivors Day together with over 500 guests.
Cancer Survivors Day is much more than just an event: it is a place for people to meet, share experiences, and find inspiration. Here, people living with or recovering from cancer connect with loved ones, professionals, and fellow travelers—and discover the power of shared stories, new perspectives, and mutual support.
Insights That Inspire: Paths Through the Crisis
A cancer diagnosis turns your life upside down. Often out of nowhere, without warning. Two deeply personal talks by those affected brought home how one can maintain a zest for life despite great uncertainty, grueling treatments, and numerous challenges. They gave a powerful account of the challenges they faced during therapy and how crucial it was to allow themselves to feel all their emotions in order to eventually find their way back to everyday life. Whether through discovering new interests and sources of strength or through a conscious decision to prioritize one’s own mental health—both talks were encouraging and powerfully demonstrated that everyone’s journey is unique.
Despite ongoing challenges, the core message of both talks was one of deep gratitude: Every day is a gift that should be accepted with gratitude.
Cancer Survivors Day: A Day Dedicated to Connecting with Others
At the University of Zurich, it was clear that you don’t have to walk this path back to life alone. The event offered much more than just a professional program: the historic setting was filled with laughter, optimism, and a strong sense of community. This lively sense of community was also reflected in the diverse program of the fifth annual Cancer Survivors Day.
Many visitors took the opportunity to make new contacts, share experiences, and learn about support services, follow-up care, and current developments at the numerous information booths. It is precisely this combination of knowledge, connections, and personal interaction that makes Cancer Survivors Day so special every year.
The Pillars of an Unforgettable Day
Inspiring presentations
At the heart of the program were the personal stories of former patients. With great candor, they spoke about the obstacles and successes they faced on their journey back to everyday life, thereby instilling courage, hope, and confidence in their listeners.
Self-Care and Quality of Life
Self-care was the central theme of this year’s Cancer Survivors Day. Experts from the CCCZ explained how people can improve their physical and mental health after cancer, cope with long-term effects, and sustainably enhance their quality of life.
Interactive Workshops
The hands-on workshops focused on shared experiences. Topics such as mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, sexuality, and returning to work were discussed. The participants received practical ideas for their daily lives and had the opportunity to exchange ideas directly with one another.
Information booths and patient organizations
Numerous exhibitors, patient organizations, and partner institutions presented their offerings and were available to answer questions and engage in one-on-one conversations. Visitors were able to learn about support services, counseling centers, exercise and self-help programs, and other resources for living with and after cancer, and to make valuable connections.
“It’s touching to see how much courage to face life comes together in this place. “This day gives us all an enormous amount of strength.”
It was great to have you with us this year
We would like to thank all visitors for their courage, openness, and willingness to share their experiences. You helped create the warm, joyful, and inspiring atmosphere of this Cancer Survivors Day. A big thank you also goes to all the speakers, workshop leaders, exhibitors, patient organizations, volunteers, and staff who put their heart and soul into making this special day possible.
The presentations were recorded and will be posted on the Cancer Survivors Day website later this week. This gives all participants the opportunity to review the content again at their own pace or catch up on any sessions they missed. At the same time, registered guests who were unable to attend at the last minute can still experience the highlights of this special day.
As soon as information about the next Cancer Survivors Day is available, it will be posted on the website. We look forward to continuing to strengthen hope, share experiences, and celebrate life together in the future.
