By The Survivors Club Staff
January 15, 2010

Before that frosty January morning one year ago, Laura Zych and Ben Bostic - who were among the 178 passengers aboard the U.S. Airways Flight that hit a flock of geese and crash-landed in the Hudson River - had never met each other. In fact, they did not start dating until six months later, but today, on the first anniversary of that dramatic event, they revealed they are thriving and in love with each other.

Although they survived the unimaginable, both have managed to put the adversity behind them, and are looking at the bright side. "I met this wonderful girl because of what we went through that day," Bostic told CNN.

Demonstrating much resilience and optimism Laura echoed his sentiment when she said that "we don't dwell on what happened to us in the crash [rather we focus] on the experiences and lessons that we've taken from it," quoted by the news provider.

Statistics suggest 19 out of 20 people make it out of airliner crashes alive, and experts have offered tips on increasing the chances of survival, which include counting the number of rows between one's seat and the nearest exit when boarding the plane.

After the plane has crash landed, it is important to leave the scene immediately because it can become toxic or explosive. If there is enough time, it may be a good idea to take basic medicines and a blanket to protect oneself from the elements.

For those who survive a plane going down in water, the Discovery Channel recommends getting clear and upwind of the aircraft but remain in the vicinity until it sinks. It is also important to stay away from fuel-covered water in case it ignites.

Individuals affected by traumatic accidents may consult the resources of the Crash Survivors Network.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 15, 2010

Although her health is deteriorating due to a rare disorder called Wegener's Granulomatosis, a type of blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis), Cindy L. Abbott is determined to live her life to the fullest. In fact, she is preparing - Cal State Fullerton banner in her backpack - to climb Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, in mid-May.

The 50-year-old climber, who is also a scuba diver and a ballroom dancer, says her other goal is to attract attention and funds for a cure, according to the university's website.

In the process, Abbot has inspirited everyone around her. For example, her guide on the ultimate quest, Scott Woolums, told the news provider that "she's incredibly focused on this project."

"She's definitely capable of making it," he added.

Meanwhile, Kathy Koser, associate dean of the College of Health and Human Development at CSUF, called the survivor's positive attitude and perseverance "awesome."

"You are a great role model and example of overcoming obstacles and reaching one's full potential," she wrote on Abbot's website, adding, "You are showing the rest of us that it is less about the destination and more about the manner in which you travel."

According to the Vasculitis Foundation, which accepts donations, Wegener's Granulomatosis affects about three in 100,000 people in the U.S, and about 500 new cases are diagnosed each year.

Although there are no known ways to prevent the onset of the condition, experts say with treatment, most patients can lead thriving lives.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 15, 2010

Michael Hall, who plays the title role of the charismatic serial killer of serial killers in the popular TV show Dexter, has been diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer. Fortunately, the disease was caught in an early stage and the actor says he is currently in remission.

In fact, the 38-year-old plans to continue his thriving Hollywood career and is preparing to attend this weekend's Golden Globe awards with his wife, according to media reports.

"I feel fortunate to have been diagnosed with an imminently treatable and curable condition, and I thank my doctors and nurses for their expertise and care," he said on Wednesday.

The star also confirmed that he will return, as scheduled, for the production of the fifth season of the show.

The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 8,510 new cases of Hodgkin disease were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2009.

According to Healthopedia.com, there is no way to prevent this type of cancer, but it is highly curable if detected early.

Despite this type of diagnosis, many survivors have been able to live fulfilling lives, and organizations such as Leukemia and Lymphoma Society provide access to valuable resources and accept donations towards finding a cure.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 14, 2010

Jessica was only 11, and an avid softball and handball player, when she was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. The diagnosis resulted in a bone marrow transplant, a peripheral blood stem cell transplant and donations of blood and platelets to keep her alive.

Today, she is 23-years-old, cancer-free and thriving, and posted a guest blog on the website of the Puget Sound Blood Center in an effort to thank the many donors who saved her life, but also to educate others about the disease and offer hope to survivors.

"Cancer treatment isn't easy," Jessica wrote, adding that bravery had nothing to do with her ultimate triumph over the disease.

Rather, she added, "my acceptance of the situation, my adaptability, my faith that when my parents told me "everything would be OK" it would be - that's what got me through the years of treatment."

According to the Centers for Disease Control, a total of 33,616 Americans were diagnosed with leukemia and 21,716 died of it in 2005 (the most recent year for which statistics are available).

Although there are no known ways to prevent most types of leukemia, WebMD.com suggests some forms of the disease may be prevented by avoiding high doses of radiation, exposure to the chemical benzene, smoking and other tobacco use.

Despite leukemia diagnosis many people are able to living fulfilling lives, and organizations such as Leukemia and Lymphoma Society provide access to valuable resources and accept donations towards finding a cure.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 14, 2010

As hours have passed since the powerful earthquake in Haiti, miraculous survival stories continue to be reported amid the death and devastation left by the seismic event. In one dispatch, CNN confirmed that a man was pulled alive from beneath the rubble of the UN compound in Port-au-Prince.

A USAID rescue team spent five hours removing slabs of concrete that trapped the man, who was identified as a security worker, inside the building where more than 100 UN workers are believed to have been when the disaster struck on Tuesday.

Even though most of them are still unaccounted for, the rescued man was well enough to be able to walk by himself, the news provider reported.

Another inspiring survival story came from near the presidential palace, where a 13-year-old girl was pulled out of a field of debris unharmed on Wednesday to a cheering crowd.

Though not the most seismically active region in the world, the U.S. can also suffer from earthquakes, which have killed approximately 4,000 Americans since 1811, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

For those living in quake-prone zones, The Center for Earthquake Research and Information at the University of Memphis recommends anchoring heavy objects, such as bookcases, mirrors or cabinets, to walls.

They should never be placed over beds and should be kept lower than head height of the shortest member of family.

When a tremor begins, it is best to crouch under a desk or table, or stand in a stout doorway, away from windows or glass dividers. Those who are caught outdoors should stay away from buildings, trees, telephones and electrical lines. If on the road, it is important to drive away from underpasses and overpasses, stop in a safe area and stay inside the vehicle.

Those who would like to support victims of the Haiti quake can donate to the Red Cross or UNICEF.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 14, 2010

When Jen started working as a breast cancer scientist for the Foundation for Biomedical Research, where she investigates innovative treatments, she had no idea that one day she would find herself at the other end of the microscopes, tubes and needles.

Yet that is exactly what happened when the biomedical expert was diagnosed with breast cancer. However, she decided to turn the adversity into an opportunity and teamed up with her employer to produce a public service announcement aimed at spreading awareness and raising funds for the cure.

As part of the ResearchSaves campaign, the clip tells Jen's story as she courageously fights the battle with the disease, both in her lab and in the hospital where she receives chemotherapy.

"Jen's personal story is so compelling because it's real," said FBR president Frankie Trull, adding that researchers like her work every day to find cures for themselves, their families and people around the world.

"By telling Jen's story, we hope to both educate the public and express our gratitude to all researchers," he added.

According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 190,000 Americans developed breast cancer in 2009, and approximately 40,000 died of the disease. Yet, experts say it is highly curable if detected early, which can be achieved though monthly self-examinations and annual mammograms for women above the age of 40.

Lifestyle changes that incorporate regular physical exercise, a low fat diet and not smoking can also lower the chances of developing the disease.

In addition to FBR, many other organizations work to raise awareness and funds for medical research, including the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Meanwhile, the resources of the National Breast Cancer Foundation may help survivors live thriving and fulfilling lives.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 13, 2010

As the debate over the healthcare reform is entering its final stages, one artist decided to highlight the story of a friend dying of cancer in an effort to spur changes in the healthcare system and help him spend the remainder of his days in comfort.

Lisa Nemzo's friend Artie Coltarella was diagnosed with renal cancer, but due to misplaced medical records and denial of care, the disease progressed beyond the hope of long-term survival.

In response, Nemzo organized a benefit concert and recruited a film crew who donated their time and equipment to create a video of Artie's story in hopes of raising money for him. In the process, she also became an advocate for patients nationwide.

"A basic check up [and timely treatment] could have prevented this," she said, adding that Artie's story is not unique in that "this is happening to people every day and it is unforgivable."

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 57,760 Americans were diagnosed with renal (kidney) cancer in 2009, and about 12,980 died from this disease.

Experts say the risk of developing renal cancer may be reduced by quitting smoking, eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure as well as reducing or avoiding exposure to environmental toxins.

Among the resources that can help patients and survivors thrive despite their diagnosis is the Kidney Cancer Association, a nonprofit organization that accepts donations.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 13, 2010

The powerful earthquake that hit Haiti on Tuesday is predicted to have killed hundreds of thousands of people, but amid the devastation there are also inspiring stories of miraculous survival.

One of them involves a husband who drove 100 miles to capital Port-au-Prince to search for his wife after he heard about of the disaster, according to the Associated Press. Frank Thorp then dug for more than one hour through bricks, wood and metal until he freed his wife and a coworker from the ruins of their mission house.

Thorpe told the CBS Early Morning Show that the experience was "terrifying," but that his wife never panicked – she just told him to "keep it together" and "get her out."

Since vast regions of the world are prone to earthquakes, it is imperative that people living in those zones are prepared for such an emergency. The Center for Earthquake Research and Information at the University of Memphis advises residents of seismically active regions to anchor heavy objects such as bookcases or cabinets - which should never be placed above beds - to walls.

Once an earthquake begins it is best to crouch under a desk or table, or stand in a stout doorway, away from windows or glass dividers.

Those who are outdoors should stay away from buildings, trees, telephones and electrical lines. If on the road, they should drive away from underpasses and overpasses, stop in a safe area and stay inside the vehicle, it suggests.

Federal Emergency Management Agency offers comprehensive information on earthquake survival, while the Red Cross and UNICEF accept donations for victims.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 13, 2010

For the last two years, British model Katie Piper has been recovering - both in body as well as in spirit - from a horrific accident in which a man hired by her former boyfriend threw acid on her face in retribution for breaking up with him, according to CNN.

The attack, for which both men received lengthy prison sentences, left her face, neck and chest scarred, in addition to blinding her in one eye.

In an interview with the news network, the 26-year-old admitted that her life has changed, but stressed that optimism, determination and faith in God helped "to rebuild my life and adapt and I still have a quality of life."

"Time is a great healer," she added.

Acid attacks are rare in the Western world, but common in Southeast Asian countries, and they mostly affect young women. For example, according to Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF), there have been 104 incidents of such attacks in Bangladesh between January and October 2009.

ASF accepts donations that help provide medical, legal and social reintegration support to acid survivors. Its goal is also to build up the capacity of local level NGOs as well as the professionals involved with this issue, including doctors, public prosecutors and the police.

By The Survivors Club Staff
January 12, 2010

When he was 13 years old in 1973, Martin Andrews was abducted and sexually assaulted by a violent predator who left him to die. Fortunately, the boy was rescued after eight days and grew up to become a victims' advocate.

CNN has profiled his story in conjunction with a case that opens before the Supreme Court today that reviews a law allowing the federal government to detain offenders it considers "sexually dangerous," even after completion of their sentences.

Andrews, who has managed to put his childhood tragedy behind and thrives working as a program manager for a defense contractor in Virginia, is a strong advocate of "civil confinement" of offenders who would otherwise be released from prison. In 2002, he orchestrated a campaign and raised funds to keep the man who had raped him off the streets after 29 years behind bars.

As a result of Andrews' efforts, Virginia has become a national model, using a tool called "Static 99" that assesses which offenders qualify for civil commitment, according to the news provider

The Amber Alert Registry (AAR) estimates some 800,000 children go missing in the U.S. each year. Meanwhile, the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), which also accepts donations, says there were 248,300 victims of sexual assault in 2007.

AAR recommends contacting local law enforcement without delay if a child is noticed as missing. It says it is important to make sure the person responding to the call receives the child's personal information (name, age and the caller's contact information) as well as an accurate physical description, including all articles of clothing present at time of disappearance.