YINCHUAN, May 25 (Xinhua) -- Forgetting the suffering caused by breast cancer over the past eight years, Liu Guiying fills her life with songs and smiles, not only for herself, but also other cancer patients.
Liu's condition got worse in 2011 and she had to be transferred from northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region to Beijing to receive better treatment.
"I almost gave up when I came to Beijing as persistent high fevers drove me to hopelessness," Liu said.
"It was a group of Pink Ribbon volunteers who brought me hope. There were several cancer patients in their group. They encouraged me and convinced me that cancer doesn't mean death and staying positive is the key to living longer."
Liu returned home after her treatment in Beijing. As she got better, she tried to find and join a voluntary organization like the one she'd met in Beijing, however, there was none.
"I realized the significance of this kind of inspiring organization for cancer patients. An optimistic attitude is sometimes more effective than drugs. I would like to help more patients leave behind their fears using my own strength as an example," said Liu, who decided to set up her won organization.
Liu met another breast cancer sufferer, Jia Yufeng, and told her about the plan. Jia's optimism made her a perfect candidate for co-initiator of the organization.
"When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, the doctor told me that I only had seven months left. The second year, the doctor said I wouldn't make it to the end of that year," said Jia.
"However, I am still here, seven years after being given a 'death sentence.' And I walk even faster than healthy people," Jia said proudly.
With the support of a local women's federation, Liu and Jia founded Xinlekang Anti-Cancer Association in 2014. Xinlekang means "fragrant, happy and healthy."
The local community provided a 100-square-meter room for the association, which has now become a safe space for cancer patients to gather, where they can take part in various kinds of activities, such as singing, dancing, and practising calligraphy.
In the room, pain, relapse and death are not taboos. This warm and positive organization encourages patients to confront their cancer bravely. They prefer turning miserable experiences into humorous stories that can help cheer up others.
"My hair fell out when I was undergoing chemotherapy. I went to the public baths and someone shouted at me 'why is a monk at the bathhouse?' I found it funny," said Jia, adding that the story always makes new members laugh.
"Our biggest enemies are ourselves, so we must defeat ourselves first. We should not give in mentally," Jia said.
The association now benefits even more cancer patients.
Ao Fuying, 43, said she hid in the corner when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was scared of seeing family and friends and refused to communicate.
Jia and Liu persisted in inviting Ao to attend their activities and when she finally did she was able to step out of her despair.
"Without the group, I might still be wiping away my tears alone at home," Ao said. "By taking part in all kinds of activities, I sometimes nearly forget I'm a patient."
In 2016, a member gave birth to a baby which was seen as a miracle inspiring everyone in the association.
"It shows us that we can not only defeat cancer, but also create new life while fighting this illness," Jia said.
As the association has become more widely known, they have been invited to give performances in residential communities and nursing homes and share their stories and spirit with more people.
