Senator Barack Obama and Meredith Baxter to speak at University of Chicago Hospitals cancer survivors celebration

May 31, 2005

United States Senator Barack Obama and actress, singer, and breast cancer survivor Meredith Baxter will anchor an all-star cast at the University of Chicago Hospitals' 15th annual Cancer Survivors Day celebration on Sunday, June 5, 2005.

The event will be held from noon to 3 p.m. at the Westin Hotel, 909 N. Michigan Ave. Anyone who has had cancer, plus friends or family members, is welcome to attend. Last year, nearly 1,000 people enjoyed the celebration.

Baxter, actress and six-year breast cancer survivor, has had a string of hit television series, including "Bridget Loves Birney," the critically acclaimed drama "Family," for which she received an Emmy nomination, and most notably the long-running and extremely popular "Family Ties." Baxter is an advocate for breast cancer prevention and provides funding for free mammograms for low-income women.

Senator Obama, sworn into the United States Senate in January 2005, is focused on promoting economic growth and bringing good paying jobs to Illinois. Obama serves on the Environment and Public Works Committee, Veterans' Affairs Committee, and Foreign Relations Committee.

"Events such as this one can take away some of the stress that comes with a diagnosis of cancer, comfort those who are going through treatment, and celebrate the many successes of modern cancer therapy," said Peggy Williams, director of psycho-oncology programs at the University of Chicago Hospitals.

"This gathering is a chance for cancer survivors to see old friends, chat with their caregivers in a non-clinical setting, and rejoice in their triumph over cancer," Williams said. "It also allows newly diagnosed patients to meet with hundreds of long-term survivors, walking evidence that there is good reason for hope despite a cancer diagnosis."

Admission is free, but participants are requested to make reservations by calling 1-888-UCH-0200.

Cancer Survivors Day events include:

Noon to 1:00 p.m.
Refreshments, mingling, and a chance to visit information booths about products for cancer patients and survivors.

1:00
Opening remarks from Senator Obama

1:05
Welcoming remarks from Jon Duncanson
CBS-2 news anchor and master of ceremonies

1:10
Remarks from medical oncologist Dr. Funmi Olopade
Director, Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics

1:25
Reza Nafisi, cancer survivor

1:30
Entertainment by Lynne Jordan & The Shivers

1:50
Keynote speaker Meredith Baxter