Surviving to Thriving: A Musical Journey of Hope and Healing

Celebrating 25 Years of Cancer Survivorship with Music, Storytelling, and Cancer Resource Exhibition

Event Overview

Join us on Saturday, June 7 during National Cancer Survivors Month at The Carter Center for a one-of-a-kind celebration of life, healing, and hope.

Surviving to Thriving is a musical performance and cancer resource experience created by cancer survivor, musician, and TEDx speaker Tom Willner, commemorating his 25th “cancer-versary.”

Through powerful music from the musical Tom wrote during his experience with cancer, personal stories, and community connection, this event is an inspiring night for anyone who has faced cancer or supported someone who has.

Event Schedule

Empowerment Hour (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Main Foyer (Ivan Allen III Pavilion)

  • A warm, engaging pre-event reception focused on resource exploration, attendees will be able to visit various organizations with resources and services.

  • Network with healthcare providers, running clubs, wellness organizations, and a motivational bookstore.

Surviving To Thriving: The Musical - A Cancer Survivorship Journey (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Carter Center Cecil B. Day Chapel

  • Tom Willner’s captivating two-act musical journey through cancer, complete with musical performance and storytelling! (Includes a 15 minute intermission)

Survivorship Celebration Party (9:00 PM – 10:00 PM): Main Foyer (Ivan Allen III Pavilion)

  • An uplifting gathering that offers additional resource connections and community-building opportunities.

A portion of proceeds will benefit the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation, helping others receive education, support, and early detection.

What to Expect

🎶 Live musical performance of Turning Thirty

💖 Personal cancer journey storytelling

🧭 Empowerment Hour: Resource & wellness expo

🏛️ The Carter Center: Historic venue with free parking

🥂 Post-show Survivorship Celebration Reception

🎗️ Giving back through TCAF

Who It’s For

  • Cancer survivors and fighters

  • Caregivers, families, and friends

  • Healthcare providers and supporters

  • Anyone moved by stories of resilience and the healing power of music

Ways To Get Involved

🎟️ Buy Tickets – $50 General Admission

🌟 Become a Sponsor – Corporate or individual options available

💬 Join the Host Committee – Help promote and celebrate

🎗️ Sponsor a Survivor – Donate to cover a seat for someone in need

Why It Matters

This event honors the human spirit — and the power of art and community to carry us forward.

It’s hosted at The Carter Center, a place of peace and purpose. This event carries on that legacy of compassion and perseverance.

Together, we’ll celebrate the journeys from surviving to thriving.

🎗️ A portion of proceeds will benefit the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation to support early detection, education, and survivorship.