Ochsner Baton Rouge celebrates strength and resilience at National Cancer Survivors Day event

Community gathers to honor survivors, connect with care teams and celebrate life after cancer

View pictures from the Ochsner Baton Rouge National Cancer Survivors Day event.

BATON ROUGE, La. – Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center – Baton Rouge welcomed more than 100 attendees on Saturday, May 31 at its Cancer Survivors Day celebration, honoring cancer survivors and their families with a joyful day of recognition, connection and community support. Held at the Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center – Baton Rouge, the event was part of the nationwide observance of National Cancer Survivors Day, which celebrates life after cancer and the ongoing journey of survivorship.

“This day is about celebrating life and honoring the incredible strength of every person who has faced cancer,” said Ashley Snowden, a licensed clinical social worker at Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center – Baton Rouge. “We’re proud to stand beside our patients and their families, not only through treatment but throughout survivorship and beyond.”

Guests of all ages gathered to enjoy a family-friendly celebration featuring food, kids’ games, ice cream, arts and crafts, music and opportunities to engage with the cancer care team at Ochsner. Survivors and their families connected with one another and learned about support services available throughout every stage of the cancer journey.

A highlight of the event was a heartfelt performance by the Bionic Babes, Dancers of Hope, a Louisiana-based dance team and support group that includes cancer survivors, healthcare professionals and their loved ones. Their performance served as an uplifting tribute to courage, community and healing.

“At Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center, our oncology providers deliver more than just medical treatment—we offer hope, compassion and a deep commitment to each patient’s journey,” said Burke “Jay” Brooks, MD, medical oncologist at the cancer center.  “Every member of our team is dedicated to providing personalized care that supports the whole person, not just the diagnosis. We’re proud to stand beside our patients and their families through every step of the cancer experience, from diagnosis to survivorship.”

National Cancer Survivors Day is observed annually to demonstrate that life after cancer is possible. It offers a meaningful moment to recognize survivors, support those recently diagnosed and raise awareness about the ongoing physical and emotional challenges many survivors face.

Ochsner Baton Rouge remains committed to advancing cancer care and improving outcomes through expert treatment, compassionate support and long-term survivorship resources.

To find support, resources and expert cancer care, visit ochsner.org/cancer.