The effects of cancer can be drastic for those who have beendiagnosed and their family and friends, but now there is a sourcethat helps them cope with the deadly disease.

The American Cancer Society has developed the Cancer SurvivorsNetwork, a community created by and for survivors and caregivers asan outlet to cope with the challenges and wide spectrum of emotionsthat accompanies cancer.

“The Cancer Survivors Network (is the) first of its kind virtualcommunity that links (them) with others who share similarexperiences,” said Allison Terrell, communication and marketingdirector for ACS mid-south division.

The network is something that a significant number of LincolnCounty residents will find useful during their battle with cancer,she said.

“Right here in Lincoln County, 143 people will be diagnosed withcancer this year,” she predicted.

Cancer Survivors Network can be accessed at no cost 24 hours aday, seven days a week through the ACS home page, www.cancer.org,or by calling 1-877-333-4673.

It allows participants to join in chats, listen to pre-recordeddiscussions, create a home page or post their experiences.

ACS officials hope the network will provide inspiration andwisdom during the difficult journey for newly-diagnosed survivors,survivors in recurrence, long-term survivors and caregivers.

The community of survivors shows how cancer can be overcome.

“More than 8.9 million Americans are living testimony thatcancer can be beaten,” stated Terrell.

Survivor stories are shared on the network from people of allages and genders with different levels of survivorship.

“We are recognizing that no one understands what it’s like tohave cancer other than those who have experienced the diseasethemselves,” said Terrell.