Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital Releases "Records of Enduring Cancer" Hope Essays

Employees are looking at the entries of the "11th Cancer Hope Essay Contest" displayed in the lobby on the 2nd floor of Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital. Provided by Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital

On January 14, Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital announced the release of the "11th Cancer Hope Essay," a collection of personal stories written by cancer patients and their caregivers about overcoming their struggles with the disease.

This collection features candid accounts of the journey from the moment of cancer diagnosis through treatment and recovery, and finally returning to everyday life.

This year, a total of 16 entries were submitted. The essays go beyond simple treatment experiences, documenting the emotional turmoil faced in the shadow of cancer, the perseverance required to hold on to family, and the daily resolve to stay strong and not cry.

Four essays were selected as winners of this contest: "Learning Hope Again," "The Day I Prayed with Both Hands to the Sun, Moon, and Stars," "To Not Let Go of His Hand," and "A Newly Diagnosed Cancer Patient! I Have Not Cried Yet."

Bae Mo's "Learning Hope Again" tells the story of a school principal who, after being diagnosed with breast cancer, endures surgery and recovery and ultimately learns a new meaning of life. In the essay, the author confesses, "Cancer was the beginning of fear, but it became a gift that allowed me to see life differently. Now, I am learning hope."

The published works also deeply reflect the perspectives of caregivers. They include the record of a son who never took a day off while shouldering his mother’s medical expenses, the story of a partner who chose to stay by their loved one’s side rather than offer empty reassurances, and the confession of a mother living each day after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and brain metastasis, saying, "I have not cried yet." Each essay illustrates how cancer affects not only the individual but also shakes the lives of entire families.

The essay contest was co-hosted by the Gwangju-Jeonnam Regional Cancer Center at Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital and the Gwangju-Jeonnam Regional Cancer Survivor Integrated Support Center. As a national cancer center, the event was organized to promote positive perceptions of cancer and to support public health initiatives that connect early detection, treatment, and life after survival.

Hospital Director Min Jeongjun stated, "Sharing cancer experiences openly can give someone else the courage to begin treatment. I hope these essays deliver the message to patients and families currently fighting cancer that 'You are not alone.'"

Kim Hyungrok, Director of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Regional Cancer Center, said, "Cancer is still a frightening word, but these essays quietly prove that, even in the midst of it, there were moments when people protected each other. These records continue to give those undergoing treatment a reason to live each new day."