Scotland Cancer Treatment Center hosted Scotland County’s 13th annual Cancer Survivors’ Day celebration last Friday. The event was held under the “big tent” on the campus of Scotland Memorial Hospital.

Approximately 225 cancer survivors and their family members, staff members of Scotland Cancer Treatment Center, and other community members attended the event, which was sponsored by Scotland Memorial Foundation.

Dr. Kelvin Raybon, medical oncologist, served as the evening’s emcee. After his welcoming remarks, Dr. Raybon introduced Betty Hasty, past chair of the Scotland Memorial Foundation Board of Trustees, who shared her family’s experience with cancer.

“As a caregiver I understand firsthand how important it is to have a local cancer center," Hasty said. "When facing cancer treatment patients should not have to travel far for care. I am extremely proud as a member of the Scotland Memorial Foundation Board of Trustees that funds raised by the Foundation are used to help many of our Cancer Center’s patients. The Patient Assistance Fund is available to provide financial support to patients who are unable to purchase pain medications, wigs, prosthesis, and even transportation to and from the Cancer Center. It is very rewarding to give back to the community through supporting the Foundation.”

Attendees were invited to join the event’s beach theme by wearing their flip-flops or sandals and casual attire. The evening entered in full swing as DJ Benny Stewart played beach music. Competitive Shaggers Sam and Lisa West of Rockingham performed for the audience and provided instruction to those who wanted to join them in shagging.

Cancer Center staff members Amy Locklear, Camille Utter, Jane Williams, Pam Ekis, Carol Sweatt, and Leslie Pontin performed ‘In This Very Room.’ Positive Charge, a local youth band consisting of Eli Raybon on lead guitar, Will Floyd on rhythm guitar, and Blake Bathie on drums delighted the audience by performing “Surfin’ USA” and several other favorites. Six-year old Emma Raybon sang ‘The Climb’ as a solo performance.

Camille Utter, director of scotland Cancer Treatment Center also addressed the group.

“Tonight is about our survivors," Utter said. "We all are so pleased to share this celebration with them and be a part of their cancer journey... We are very grateful to the donors of the Scotland Memorial Foundation, not only for generously supporting our event this evening; but also for the ongoing support we receive throughout the year with grants for our patient assistance fund, support groups, snacks for patients undergoing treatment and, most importantly, facility expansions.”

Dr. Raybon closed out the evening by inviting all survivors to tie a ribbon on the Scotland County Cancer Survivor's Tree of Life. The Tree, which was planted June 5, 1994, is located on the west side of the hospital. It has since grown so tall that Cancer Center staff had to climb a ladder to assist survivors in hanging their ribbons on the lower branches.

“Our 13th annual Cancer Survivors’ Day seemed to be a real success,” Raybon said. “We were very sorry that Dr. Chip Helms, our radiation oncologist, could not be with us, but he had a prior family commitment. However, the weather cooperated nicely, we enjoyed a great turnout, and everyone seemed to have a great time. More than one person told me it was the best banquet that we have ever had, so I think that we have 'raised the bar' for next year's celebration. Thanks go the Cancer Center staff, who put a tremendous amount of time and effort into this special recognition of all of our cancer survivors."