Cancer survivor pin celebrates battle for life

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif. — The new Cancer Survivor Pin is helping survivors celebrate progress in the battle against the disease. By wearing the pin, survivors acknowledge their own triumph and help encourage others.

The Survivor Pin was inspired by a chance encounter between Naomi Gonzales of Prunedale, CA., who was newly diagnosed with breast cancer, and a grocery store clerk, a long-time survivor. The Cancer Survivor Pin is produced by Common Bond and is available on the Common Bond Web site.

"When I heard the story told by Naomi, I realized that cancer survivors need a symbol, one they can wear to celebrate survivorship and offer others hope," said Gin Weathers who came up with the idea for the pin. "There are over 8 million survivors, thanks to a continuing decline in deaths from cancer. Today 60 percent of people survive a cancer diagnosis."

Weathers sought the help of graphics designer Donna Aikins who created the gold metal Survivor Pin and a silver Supporter pin for friends and family who have helped a loved one battle cancer and support the ongoing fight against the disease. Both pins are round, with a tree and the word LIFE etched in relief. Small raised letters around the base of the pin identify the wearer as a survivor or supporter.

Gonzales had just finished a round of chemotherapy when she dropped into the local supermarket to buy herself some flowers. She shared her concern about her cancer with the clerk who she discovered was a cancer survivor. Reaching out to Gonzales, the clerk assured her that she, too, would be a survivor.

"A diagnosis of cancer no longer means an automatic death sentence," says Gonzales. "People are proud to share their experience, to let others know that they are successfully battling the disease," she added.

Cancer Survivor and Supporter pins are available individually for $5.00, or on a beautifully designed greeting card with envelope for $7.50. To order Survivor/Supporter Pins or learn more about Common Bond and its other products, visit the Web site or call (831) 655-5689 or email Common Bonds. Common Bond donates a portion of the proceeds to cancer-fighting organizations

Source: Common Bond