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Thursday, October 20 is a day set aside to honor Rutherford County cancer survivors and their caregivers and families.
"We are hoping to reach the 400 or so people who attended the 2019 survivor's celebration and those who enjoyed participating in Relay for Life in the past," explained Jill Miracle, the executive director for the Community Health Council. We had to take a two-year break for events during the worst of Covid and we are happy to be back in the celebration business."
"There are over 5,000 people living in our county who have experienced a cancer diagnosis. That speaks well of current treatment and recovery options available to patients. It also reflects the tenacity of those who are walking that path now, or who have experienced a cancer journey at some point in their lives. We want to offer a moment for them to relax and know they are honored."
"Cheering for our All-Stars" is being offered by the Cancer Services committee of the Community Health Council of Rutherford County, along with 15 other community members who have joined the planning sessions to make the event special. The group includes representatives from Blue Ridge Health, the Rutherford County Health Department, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Rutherford Regional Health System, RHI Legacy Foundation, cancer survivors, and other community members. Westrock and Jackson Hewitt Tax Service have offered sponsorships for portions of the event and are involved in planning the evening's activities.
The free Survivor Celebration will be held at POPS in Forest City, which will close for the survivors event. The Celebration will begin with registration at 4:45 and dinner will be offered in a safe manner throughout the evening. Special music, bingo and other games, a photo booth, sports-themed refreshments, and surprise visits from local groups will add to the celebration. "If you know of a local survivor, please make sure they register to attend", Miracle continued. "Because of protected health information limitations, we have challenges reaching those who might be interested. We need everyone's help in notifying our special invitees."
Guests may arrive at any time during the 5-7:30pm event to enjoy dinner and take part in unique events planned for them. Each Rutherford County survivor is invited to attend and may bring up to two adult or youth guests with them. Attendees are invited to wear their favorite team jersey.
There is no charge to attend, but an RSVP is required by October 11 to ensure food is available for all attendees. Please call the reservation line at 828-245-4596 with a survivor name, phone number, and number of persons attending.
Those who register are encouraged to "like" the Facebook page Community Health Council of Rutherford County for updates.
For more information about the event or to offer a sponsorship, please call Jill Miracle at the Community Health Council of Rutherford County at 828-202-4630.
The Cancer Services Committee of the Community Health Council meets monthly to facilitate cancer patient financial assistance, prevention and education offerings, and survivorship programs. Funding for Cancer Services for Rutherford County is provided through RHI Legacy Foundation and former donations made for cancer programs.
