2026 marked the third year of the American Cancer Society’s annual Survivors Luncheon at the First United Methodist Church of Union County on Saturday, June 27.
The event acts as a stand-in for the previously held Relay For Life walks; being indoors, one doesn’t have to worry about rain dampening the fun or health emergencies due to the heat.
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Guests sat in the community room decorated with pink and silver balloons and other décor. They socialized before the event officially began with the acknowledgment that the survivors were respected for what they’ve been through and appreciated simply for being themselves.
“What a special thing to celebrate,” remarked volunteer Sue Upchurch before sharing a portion of her own story. She was unfamiliar with the deeply personal fight attached to “the C-word” when she first moved to Blairsville, but by 2013, she was unfortunately forced to become acquainted.
Now an advocate for patients, survivors and families, Upchurch stands at the forefront of bringing awareness and support to those who often feel they’ve never been more alone.
Upchurch provided the meal’s invocation before guests were released to the eponymous luncheon, which featured sub sections of roast beef or turkey, slaw and pasta salad, and “decadent” homemade Mississippi mud pie or snickerdoodles for dessert.
Wayne Jones, a First United Methodist member and part of the choir, performed a selection of uplifting songs for attendees to reassure them that God would always be on their side, and for that, there would forever be hope in the face of uncertainty.
Myron and Brenda Turner, Carl and Ann Hymen and Susan Miles all sat together and shared their stories. All but Carl Hymen were diagnosed with breast cancer. Myron Turner admitted he was a rarity to receive the diagnosis as a man, and some people insisted he had “chest cancer.”
“I knew for a fact I was going to be successful. I love the Lord, and I prayed,” Turner admitted. “This is a good reminder, these festivities, that you can defeat cancer. You’ve got to have a good attitude; you’ve got to be happy and not sad, because if you’re happy, Someone Upstairs is going to remember that.”
“It’s a very, very nice thing,” Ann Hymen agreed of the event. Hymen’s own breast cancer was caught early enough that she did not receive chemotherapy or radiation, but she did undergo a double mastectomy 10 years ago.
Miles fought her battle 23 years ago and credits her survival to the grace of God and a strong support group. That’s why she makes a point of being there for others, agreeing staunchly that the luncheon is a great way to remind people they’re not alone and that cancer is not a death sentence; for this reason, she hopes for greater attendance next year.
When Carl Hymen received his diagnosis, he felt “dirty” and didn’t want his wife to touch him. Eventually, he learned to cope through humor – something that helped Ann during her own journey. Together, they overcame their battles, and both, along with their fellows around the table, have made full recoveries.
Until every case can go into remission, though, the Turners, Hymens, and Miles agreed that more awareness and support needed to exist for people who are still in the fight.
That is why events like the luncheon and organizations such as Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society are so important; if nothing else, they remind others that they are not alone and there are plenty of reasons to maintain hope.
Organizers wanted to extend special thanks to Ingrid and Kenny Engle for their role in helping set up decorations. They are also grateful for participating and supporting businesses such as Sammie’s Subs, Foodland, Logan Turnpike Mill, Expedition Joe Coffee, Craneberry Creek Soaps, Gracie’s Nursery and, of course, the Relay For Life Leadership Team.
