Here at the American Cancer Society, we know firsthand that each and every person has a tale to tell. We are privileged to be on the receiving end of countless amazing stories of bravery, love, and the triumph of the human spirit even in the face of adversity or loss. These stories have been shared through contact with our National Cancer Information Center, through postings on the American Cancer Society Cancer Survivors Network^®, through the New Connections newsletter you are now reading, and through the many other ways in which people reach out to tell their amazing tales.

Now, there is yet another way that people can share their inspiring stories. It’s called the American Cancer Society Story Studio tour, and it was on the move in recent months, recording America's stories of hope. Those who shared their experiences on this tour did so in hopes that their stories will inspire others to get involved with the Society's lifesaving mission.

Chris Pablo from Hawaii, who was diagnosed in June 1995 with chronic myelogenous leukemia, shared his story in the Story Studio.

“As I look back on my leukemia experience, it was a blessing,” says Pablo. “It gave me the opportunity to learn and grow spiritually, psychologically, and personally.”

Pablo also discussed how his diagnosis helped guide him in his future volunteer endeavors. “My cancer experience trained me for life, to help others and help the community,” he said. “It trained me not only as an advocate but as a caregiver for other people.”

Please click here to see Chris Pablo tell his story.

Amy Norman from Texas shared her brave tale of having lost her mother to cancer.

”It has touched us and brought out so many good things and made my family realize we need to help others,” Norman says.

Norman also described how the American Cancer Society has helped her and her family. “If I needed support or if my mother needed support, they gave me access to many programs that were available,” says Norman.

These are just snippets from two of the nearly 250 compelling stories from volunteers and staff across the nation. So successful was the Story Studio tour that the Society is already discussing plans for another tour.

There’s always a story and there is always someone waiting to hear it. A few shared words have the ability to deliver a lonely listener from a world of incapacitating fear into the arms of a community empowered by understanding. These stories are not just stories; they are lifesavers. Please keep them coming.

Tell Your Story

If you have a story you would like to share, we’d love to hear it. Please click here to complete the online form.