A cancer anniversary can be a powerful reminder of how far you’ve come. Often called cancerversaries, these milestones are deeply personal. They may mark a moment of strength, resilience, or courage, or they may bring up emotions that are harder to process. It’s normal to feel a mix of gratitude, relief, fear, sadness, or even uncertainty on these days. For many, cancer never really feels like it’s “over,” but taking time to reflect on milestones can sometimes be a way to acknowledge your journey and recognize the progress you’ve made.

What qualifies as a cancerversary?

The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship officially registered the term cancerversary to describe a personal milestone tied to survivorship, whether you are living with, through, or beyond a cancer diagnosis.

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What makes a cancer anniversary meaningful is entirely up to you. It might be the day you were diagnosed and began your journey, the day you finished treatment or surgery, or the day you learned you were cancer-free. Some choose more than one milestone to recognize. There is no single right way, it’s yours to define.

Choosing your own cancerversary

Deciding what to honor can sometimes feel confusing. It may not always feel celebratory to remember certain dates, especially if they were difficult moments in your treatment. That’s okay. Your cancerversary can take whatever form feels right for you, whether it’s quiet reflection, a gathering with loved ones, or even letting the day pass without acknowledgement.

For some, the milestone is tied to hearing the words “no evidence of disease,” often called a NEDaversary. NED, which is sometimes used interchangeably with remission, means that recent scans, bloodwork, or tests show no detectable cancer. For others, anniversaries may simply represent enjoying life to its fullest, endurance, or another year of living beyond a diagnosis.

How can I celebrate my own cancer anniversary?

There’s no set way to recognize a cancer anniversary. Many people create their own traditions. For some, it may mean sharing a meal with family or friends, or even hosting a larger gathering to mark the day. Others take a trip they postponed during treatment as a way of reclaiming experiences they once had to put on hold. Some find meaning in volunteering or fundraising to support cancer organizations.

Celebration can also take the form of self-care, such as treating yourself to a special purchase or a pampering service. You may find the most meaningful approach is to spend time alone, reflecting, journaling, or practicing mindfulness or use it as an opportunity to check something off your bucket list, whether that’s traveling, trying a new hobby, or doing something adventurous.

Not every cancerversary has to be celebrated in the same way. It often depends on how you’re feeling. The most important thing is that whatever you choose feels authentic to you.

Supporting others on their anniversaries

If you’re marking someone else’s cancerversary, thoughtful gestures can make a difference. This might mean writing a note, sharing a gift, spending time together, or simply acknowledging their courage. Even a phone or video call can help show support and remind them they are not alone.

What if I don’t want to celebrate?

That’s perfectly valid, too. Not everyone wants to recognize or mark a cancer anniversary, and there’s no obligation to do so. Choosing not to celebrate, or quietly reflecting in your own way, is just as meaningful as throwing a party. Loved ones can best support you by respecting your wishes, whatever they may be.

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