A Focus on Colorado Events supported by Live By Living
On June 1, 2025, communities across Colorado came together to honor cancer survivors and the people who support them during National Cancer Survivors Day. It was more than just a celebration — it was a recognition of the incredible resilience and hope that carry individuals through one of life’s greatest challenges: cancer.
At the heart of several Colorado events was Live By Living, a nonprofit that helps survivors and caregivers find healing through nature-based programs like walks, hikes, and retreats. Their presence at two key celebrations in Lakewood and Colorado Springs brought to life the restorative power of connection, movement, and community.
Lakewood: A Day of Strength at Bear Creek Lake Park
In Lakewood, the Colorado Cancer Coalition and Live By Living co-hosted a Cancer Survivors Day Celebration at Bear Creek Lake Park. Against the backdrop of open skies and mountain views, participants took part in:
- A gentle hike led by Live By Living volunteers
- Food, conversation, and encouragement among peers
The event offered more than physical activity — it offered space for survivors and caregivers to reflect, to reconnect with joy, and to feel seen and supported.
Colorado Springs: Nature Walk and Community Connection
In Colorado Springs, Live By Living supported a gathering at Bear Creek Regional Park, where survivors and supporters came together for:
- A guided nature walk along peaceful trails
- A nature scavenger hunt for families and kids
- Live music and wellness resource tables
This event was a vivid reminder that healing is not just medical — it’s emotional, mental, and spiritual. Survivors often speak of the importance of simply being outside, breathing fresh air, and knowing they are not alone.
Durango: A Day of Healing and Connection
Held at the Three Springs Pavilion, the Durango event was hosted by CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital and Live By Living partner, Cancer Support Community Southwest Colorado. The celebration featured live music, inspiring speakers, yoga, qigong, arts and crafts, and a picnic-style lunch. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with other survivors, caregivers, and supporters, fostering a sense of community and shared resilience.
The Power of Resilience and Hope
Resilience is not just about “bouncing back.” For many survivors, it means redefining life after cancer — learning to trust their bodies again, to adapt to a new normal, and to carry forward with courage despite fear of recurrence or lasting effects of treatment.
Hope is equally vital. Whether it’s hope for a cure, hope for more good days than bad, or hope that their story might inspire someone else, this inner light helps patients and caregivers persevere.
Live By Living fosters both resilience and hope by:
- Creating safe spaces for emotional vulnerability
- Encouraging physical activity to rebuild strength and confidence
- Offering shared experiences that remind survivors: you are not alone
One participant reflected, “When I hike with others who understand what I’ve been through, I don’t have to explain myself. We walk together, and that’s enough.”
Moving Forward, Together
National Cancer Survivors Day reminds us that cancer does not end with treatment. Survivorship is a lifelong journey. It involves courage, community, and ongoing healing. Organizations like Live By Living play a vital role by nurturing resilience and keeping hope alive — one step, one breath, and one trail at a time.
To learn more about programs that support cancer survivors and caregivers in Colorado and beyond, visit livebyliving.org.