Cancer "survivor": How do you feel about this term?

Hello Carenity members,

In thinking about cancer and reading about recent health articles, it dawned on me that it seems that "survivor" is a term used for those recovering/defeating cancer... cancer survivor. For example, people who have survived a heart attack are not deemed heart attack survivors or people who overcome diabetes or any other ailment, HIV, etc., are not termed "survivor".

I feel survivor is a very powerful word and, has a deep meaning of someone who is strong and overcome the toughest obstacle... a word that rightfully describes those who recover/defeat cancer. However, I am interested in hearing your opinions on the use of the word in relation to cancer.

Do you use it as a word to describe yourself? 

Do you think there is a stigma attached to one saying they were diagnosed with cancer?

Where do you think use of the word came from?

I look forward to your opinions and views.