National Survivors Day

A group of diverse individuals smiling and holding hands, wearing colorful shirts, in a sunny park surrounded by trees and flowers.. — National survivors day illustration

Welcome to National Survivors Day! This is a day dedicated to celebrating and honoring the incredible strength and resilience of survivors. Whether it's surviving a rough school project, a grueling workout, or even a terrible haircut, we all have stories of overcoming adversity. So, let's dive into the history and significance of this special day!

When is Survivors Day?

It's national survivors day on the 7th June.

The Origin of National Survivors Day

National Survivors Day originated from the depths of the internet, where stories of survival and triumph began to circulate, inspiring people to create a dedicated day for celebrating survivors around the world.

In 2015, the online community noticed an unusually high number of mentions of survivors. It seemed like everyone was sharing their tales of victory over various challenges faced in life. Out of this surge in online conversations, National Survivors Day was born.

How to Celebrate

There are numerous ways to celebrate National Survivors Day. You can reach out to your loved ones who have gone through difficult times and give them a virtual high-five for their resilience. Send them a heartfelt message or share their inspiring stories on social media to honor their journey.

If you're feeling particularly brave, you can also challenge yourself by trying something new today. Whether it's conquering a fear, pushing your limits physically, or taking on a personal goal, experiencing victory firsthand will make you appreciate the strength it takes to be a survivor.

Awareness and Support

National Survivors Day is also a time to raise awareness about important causes and organizations that support survivors. You can use this day to learn about different support networks such as counseling services, helplines, and community programs available in your area to help survivors navigate their path to recovery.

Remembering the Past

In addition to celebrating present triumphs, National Survivors Day encourages us to remember those who couldn't make it through their struggles. Take a moment to reflect and honor the memory of the survivors who are no longer with us. Their stories continue to shed light on the ongoing need for support and compassion for survivors everywhere.

History behind the term 'Survivors'

1560

Introduction of the term 'survivor'

The term 'survivor' originated in the English language during the 16th century. It is derived from the Latin word 'super' which means 'over' or 'above'. The term was initially used to describe someone who outlived a dangerous or unfortunate event.

1945

Widespread use after World War II

The term 'survivor' gained significant recognition and usage after the end of World War II. With the devastating impact of the war and the immense loss of life, the term became more commonly associated with those who had endured the horrors and aftermath of the conflict.

1970

Emergence of Survivor Syndrome

In the 1970s, the term 'Survivor Syndrome' was coined by psychiatrists and psychologists. It referred to the psychological and emotional distress experienced by individuals who had survived traumatic events such as wars, natural disasters, or accidents. This recognition led to a deeper understanding of the long-term effects of trauma on survivors.

1980

Rise of survivorship in medical context

The term 'survivor' began to be widely used in the medical field in the 1980s, particularly in relation to cancer. Medical professionals started referring to individuals who had successfully overcome cancer as 'cancer survivors'. This shift in language aimed to promote a sense of hope, resilience, and empowerment for those affected by the disease.

1992

National Cancer Survivors Day

In 1992, the first National Cancer Survivors Day (NCSD) was celebrated in the United States. The day honors cancer survivors and provides support and inspiration to those currently fighting against the disease. It has since become an annual event observed on the first Sunday in June, highlighting the strength and unity of cancer survivors worldwide.

Did you know?

Did you know that National Survivors Day is also a great opportunity to indulge in some delicious comfort food? Treat yourself to your favorite dish because surviving life's challenges definitely deserves a tasty reward!