A cancer diagnosis fundamentally alters life’s trajectory, but it doesn’t extinguish hope, inner strength, or the will to live fully. This powerful message is beautifully conveyed in the traveling photo exhibition by Frauenselbsthilfe Krebs (Women’s Self-Help Group for Cancer),currently on display at the Klinikum Darmstadt. The exhibition, located in the foyer on the ground floor of building 6, is open to the public during the hospital’s operating hours, starting now and continuing thru mid-February.
Finding Strength in Shared Experiences: The “This Is Me!” Exhibition
At the heart of the exhibition, titled ”Das bin ich! Starke Frauen nach, mit und trotz Krebs” (“This Is Me! Strong Women After, With, and Despite Cancer”), are the stories of women who have faced cancer firsthand. these brave individuals have shared their personal journeys through compelling photographs and deeply moving text, creating a project that resonates with those affected, their loved ones, and the wider community.
The concept for this impactful photo project originated approximately eight years ago. Following meticulous planning, a collaborative photoshoot, and its initial unveiling in 2019, it evolved into a nationwide traveling exhibition. To date, it has graced numerous hospitals and rehabilitation centers, with the current presentation at Klinikum Darmstadt marking its 26th stop.
“Our project’s greatest achievement lies in its ability to instill courage in newly diagnosed women, demonstrating that a fulfilling life is possible even with a cancer diagnosis,” share the women involved. The portraits and accompanying narratives reveal vulnerability, resilience, and openness-underscoring that cancer is not synonymous with the end of life, but rather a chapter within it.
The Onkologisches Zentrum (Oncology Center) at Klinikum Darmstadt actively sought out this traveling exhibition, providing support to amplify its message. The center aims to showcase these portraits to foster shared experiences, offer hope, and initiate open conversations about cancer. A key objective is to encourage connection and provide encouragement to those navigating their own journeys.
The exhibition invites you to observe, listen, and engage in dialogue.As research from the American Cancer Society indicates, open communication about cancer significantly improves coping mechanisms and treatment adherence [[1]].Silence doesn’t help-talking does, especially when it comes to cancer.
A especially meaningful time to visit is on World Cancer Day, Tuesday, February 3, 2026. From 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM,Klinikum Darmstadt will host a comprehensive event featuring lectures,workshops,guided tours,and information booths centered around life with cancer. The photo exhibition will also be accessible during this event.
Moreover, Frauenselbsthilfe Krebs Darmstadt holds regular meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6: