(The stage is set, and I, a peculiar blend of Jimmy Carr’s dark humor, Rowan Atkinson’s bumbling wit, Ricky Gervais’s sarcastic charm, and Lee Evans’s high-energy antics, take the microphone.)
“Welcome, folks, to the most uplifting story of the day – a calendar about cancer! Because, you know, what’s more festive than a picture of someone with a bald head and a concerned expression? (chuckles) Just kidding, this is actually a wonderful initiative.
“So, the Spanish Association Against Cancer in Zamora has released their 2025 calendar, featuring people who have battled cancer. And I must say, it’s a bold move. I mean, who needs a calendar with cute kittens or scenic landscapes when you can have a calendar with people who have undergone chemotherapy? (laughter) It’s like they say, ‘Well, at least it’s not a tumor!’ (groans)
“But seriously, this calendar is all about raising awareness and funds for cancer research. And I commend them for it. I mean, who wouldn’t want to help find a cure for this terrible disease? (applause) Unless, of course, you’re a hypochondriac, in which case, you might want to stick with the cute kitten calendar. (laughter)
“Now, I know what you’re thinking – ‘A calendar about cancer? That’s a bit of a downer.’ But hear me out. The people featured in this calendar are not just cancer patients; they’re survivors, they’re warriors, they’re… well, they’re people who have been through a lot and are still smiling. (applause)
“And let’s talk about the photographer, Jose Luis Leal. I mean, this guy’s got skills. He’s managed to make cancer patients look like supermodels. (laughter) Although, I have to say, some of the poses do look a bit… uncomfortable. (chuckles) I mean, who thought it was a good idea to pose a cancer patient in a field of sunflowers? ‘Hey, Bob, can you just lean against that sunflower and smile for the camera? And, oh, don’t worry about the chemotherapy-induced baldness, we’ll just Photoshopt it out.’ (laughter)
“But in all seriousness, this calendar is a wonderful way to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. And I’m not just saying that because I’m a cynical comedian trying to sound deep. (laughter) Although, I do have to say, the price of the calendar is a bit steep – four euros? That’s like, what, 10 pounds of flesh? (laughter) Just kidding, it’s a bargain! (applause)
“So, go out and buy this calendar. Not just because it’s a good cause, but because it’s also a great way to freak out your friends and family. ‘Hey, Bob, check out my new calendar! It’s got cancer patients on it!’ (laughter) Just imagine the look on their faces. Priceless! (laughter)
“And to the people featured in this calendar, I say, ‘Bravo!’ You’re not just survivors; you’re calendar models. (applause) Although, I have to say, I’m a bit worried about the February model. I mean, he’s posing with a rather…unsettling… expression. (laughter) I’m not sure if he’s trying to scare off the cancer or attract it. (laughter)
“All joking aside, this calendar is a wonderful initiative, and I applaud the Spanish Association Against Cancer in Zamora for their efforts. So, go out and buy this calendar, and let’s raise some money for cancer research. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll find a cure for this terrible disease. (applause) Although, if we do, I’ll have to find a new topic for my jokes. (laughter) Ah, the horror! (laughter)”
The Spanish Association Against Cancer in Zamora Unveils the Twenty-First Edition of Its 2025 Calendar, Aiming to Raise Funds for Research and Normalize the Stigma Surrounding the Disease.
During the presentation, Alfonso Fernández, President of the AECC in Zamora emphasized, “The three pillars that make this calendar a reality are photographer Jose Luis Leal, Duero Graphics, and the Caja Rural de Zamora Foundation. Without the participation of patients, this project would be impossible.”
Laura Huertos, Communication Technique of the Caja Rural de Zamora Foundation praised the AECC in Zamora for their tireless efforts in caring for patients and families affected by cancer. “They offer social support that is indispensable for those going through this difficult journey,” She added, “Cancer affects us all, and it is crucial to continue researching and learning more about this disease.”
Jose Luis Leal, photographer and Ical correspondent in Zamora, expressed gratitude to the AECC in Zamora while highlighting the key aspects of the calendar. “I have focused more on the person themselves, rather than the environment, so that the person is the central focus of interest each month.”
Rubén Sánchez, Psychologist of the Association, stressed that the primary objective of the calendar is to “give visibility” to people and family members who have personally experienced the disease. “It is a courageous act, as it signifies accepting that each person has lived their own journey with cancer, and showcasing their process.”
Sánchez continued, “This year’s calendar features women, men, young and old, which demonstrates that cancer does not discriminate between sex, age, or zip code. We are fortunate to have volunteers, patients, and family members from almost the entire province participating.”
In addition to raising awareness about cancer, the calendar aims to generate funds to maintain free services for patients and families, promote research, and strive for a 70 percent survival rate.
Carmen García, a breast cancer patient who participated in the calendar, expressed her appreciation to the AECC in Zamora and Jose Luis Leal. “The experience was incredibly positive, and I feel like I gained something. I volunteered because I believe it’s essential to make cancer more visible and to normalize it.”
“We have cancer or have had it, and we are going through different phases, but we are still here,” García said. “I invite the media to help normalize cancer by using the word without resorting to euphemisms.”
Conchi Rodríguez, another breast cancer patient, shared her story, “I was taken aback when I received my diagnosis. My first reaction was that I didn’t want pity or to be treated differently. I want to continue being the same person, and for cancer patients to be seen as people with any other disease.”
“I am not embarrassed about losing my hair, which was a consequence of my treatment. It’s a way to give visibility to the disease,” Rodríguez explained. “I wear a hat in winter, but I take it off in closed spaces to show my new reality. Nothing has changed, and we will move forward. Family and friends have been instrumental in supporting me through this process.”
The calendar will be available for purchase at the price of four euros at the Zamora, Benavente, and Toro headquarters, as well as at the Virgen de la Concha Hospital and in a booth after the bridge, according to Rubén Sánchez.
