Nearly 250 people who have survived cancer were celebrated Saturday with the 7th annual Cures for the Colors Survivor Banquet at the Maxwell Center.
The event included words of encouragement, a time to honor those who lost their battle with cancer, a story of a local survivor as well as entertainment.
Dr. Matthew Sochat, an oncologist with the Southeastern Medical Oncology Center, asked everyone in attendance to take a moment to pause in silence to remember the people who have died from cancer. He also offered encouraging words to anyone who is currently fighting cancer.
The Rev. Bill Rose, First PH Church pastor, also shared words of inspiration and hope prior to the meal that was served.
During brunch, Steve Jones serenaded the attendees with gospel music that included songs of hope and reminders of the love of God that is available in all circumstances.
Kriquette Davis, founder and CEO of the nonprofit Kriquette's Kidz, also shared her personal journey of surviving cancer. She spoke about courage and determination and how it helps develop an unbeatable spirit that defines cancer survivors.
Davis said that the struggle brings greatness and that the room was filled with greatness — great love, hope, courage, resilience and determination. People in attendance have been through so much, whether their story is fighting cancer or standing with a loved one diagnosed with cancer, Davis said.
"No matter what their journey looked like, I hope all attendees left the event knowing just how much they were seen, loved, and supported,” Davis said.
The event was organized by Southeastern Cancer Care and sponsored by the Southeastern Medical Oncology Center, SMOC.
“It was such an honor to recognize those in our community who have battled cancer or are still fighting the disease," said Emma Barnes, Community Development Coordinator with Southeastern Cancer Care.
Southeastern Cancer Care was founded in 2011 by the Southeastern Medical Oncology Center doctors, who saw first hand the need to support cancer patients financially as they battled their diagnosis.
SCC raises funds so patients do not have to choose between treatment and basic living essentials. Southeastern Cancer Care is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing gas gift cards and grocery gift cards, as well as, helping with utility bills and oncology prescriptions.
Of the money raised for families, 100% goes directly into the pockets of cancer patients and their families. Southeastern Cancer Care runs solely off monetary donations and volunteer time and resources.