The 20th anniversary of the Relay for Life Survivor Dinner invited the Bulloch County community to join in this uplifting, celebratory occasion. What an absolute pleasure it was to join the family-like, friendly guests, composed of survivors and caregivers, called the ‘Relay Family.’
In a brightly decorated spring-like room, dinner was served by the ladies from St. Matthew Catholic Church, with the meal sponsored and catered by The Statesboro Service League and Uncle Shug’s. The menu consisted of fried chicken, green beans, mac and cheese, rolls, and a variety of desserts (provided by the Ladies of St Matthew’s). Delicious! Dinner music was provided by Felecia Prince on the piano.
Lori Wiggins, Survivor and Champion of Relay for Life, welcomed the guests, followed by Lauren McGrath,Senior Development manager for the American Cancer Society saying, “Cancer has left its mark. Through personal battles directly or indirectly, its impact is profound.”
Wiggins shared, “I have been part of ‘Relay for Life’ to help raise money in memory of friends and family that have lost their battle with cancer and in honor of those that are continuing their fight. Hearing the words CANCER is one of the scariest moments in a person’s life, and I want to be a part of that team that helps to find a CURE. We are all part of a family, calling ourselves ‘Relay Sisters.’“
Gail Dismuke, guest speaker and Survivor, began her story, “My personal experience with cancer was…until 2001.. non-existent! As a wife, caregiver to my husband (pancreatic cancer) from his diagnosis until death, we had one month to get our ‘Hearts and Minds’ wrapped around the inevitable.”
Moving on the ‘fast track of life’ working hard, with a full steam ahead attitude, Dismuke found a lump and was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003.
"Cancer became part of my personal life, having 3 family cancer deaths by 2015. Regular mammograms and self-exams are all extremely important to everyone,” said Dismuke.
In 2013, she celebrated her 20th anniversary of being cancer FREE. Concluding, she said, “I'm thankful for each and every day as a survivor and for the support of family and friends, God, and my Relay Family."
Gratitude and appreciation were the common thread among everyone at the Survivor/Caregiver dinner for Relay for Life.
Testimonies
- Ashlee Mitchell, Survivor and guest, shared, “The experience of having had and survived cancer is hard, and the emotional toll is long-lasting. ‘Relay For Life’ and the relationships reminds us that we are not alone. Others locally understand what my family and I have gone through and continue to go through.”
- Maurice R Jackson, Survivor, shared, “Diagnosed with colon cancer in 2018, radiation, chemotherapy and surgery, I am pleased to say I am now ‘Cancer Free.’ This disease affected me but also many people in my family and community. Helping raise money for this worthy cause is very important. I am thrilled to contribute to the fight against cancer.
Save the Date for Relay!
‘Relay for Life’ is April 19, 2024 beginning at 6pm in Downtown Statesboro. You can visit the event website for updates and additional information.
“Personally I want to invite you to the ‘Relay For Life’ as we celebrate our survivors and remember those that were lost,” shared Lori Wiggins. "Without the continued support of the community, WE could not do this alone. Everyone has been touched by cancer! Volunteers are always needed. WE can make a difference!”
McGrath closed by saying, “Anyone interested in being part of our ‘Relay For Life’ of Bulloch/GSU should reach out. We would love to have you!”
Contact Lauren McGrath 912-341-6674 or [email protected] for more information or to sign up to volunteer.
