by Audrey Lee

FRANKLIN
Pink is Powerful cancer support group celebrated its seventh annual gala on Oct. 20. The theme this year was “A Night of Inspiration.” We laughed, we cried, we celebrated the lives of our survivors and those who have gained their wings.

We were graced this year with a word from the Lord by the Rev. Debra Gholston. Music was presented by Britnee Randolph and siblings with a grand display of talent and other talent was presented in song by Cassandra Hobbs.

Our 2018-2019 Honorees are as follows with statements given by them:

• J.T. Holland, a 13-year-old seventh grader. He has endured six surgeries, four rounds of chemo and 32 days of radiation and numerous CT and MRI scans. Overjoyed to find out that his tumor has shrunk to barely a blip on the last three scans. He has always remained positive, upbeat and a true hero!

• Guy Myrick Sr. was diagnosed in 2006: “I was devasted to the point that I began making my funeral arrangements. After sharing my news with my family, I also disclosed the diagnosis to my pastor, the late Pastor Eddie Lee. He prayed for me and encouraged me. I was cancer-free for nine years.; however, in 2015, the cancer returned. Since that time, I have been taking treatments at the Cancer Treatment Center of America in Atlanta, Georgia. On April 2, I was given the report that I was cancer-free. I find peace and comfort in the words of Jesus found in John 14:1: “Let not your heart be troubled.” I know that I am more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus!”

• Glenda Griffin Worrell daughter of Arnold and Irene Griffin, married to Rick Worrell for the past 16 years. “I grew up in Hunterdale, graduated from Southampton High School. Worked in Heilig-Meyers for 23 years and now with the City of Franklin Treasurer’s Office for the last 13 years. Diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer of the lungs, lymph nodes, two brain lesions and adrenal gland in July 2017. Thirteen months in and I am doing great!”

• Sharon Nicole Goodwyn, MPA, Daughter of Pastor Anthony L. Goodwyn Sr. and first lady Vivian Goodwyn. “I have two children and two siblings. I was born in the City of Franklin and graduated from Franklin High School in 1991. Currently employed with the Commonwealth of Virginia as a field supervisor for The Division of Child Support. Diagnosed in 2017 with a malignant tumor in my left breast; in which I had a lumpectomy and my sentinel lymph nodes to test and see if the cancer had spread. The lymph nodes came back benign and I left the hospital cancer-free. From 2017 to 2018, I have been treated for a negative, HER2 positive tumor. Through all this my faith has not wavered. I know God to be a healer and a deliverer. I believe the report of the Lord and walk each day in peace knowing that God is in control. I believe that my words have power, so I speak life!”

• Virginia Edmonds is a 22-year survivor of breast cancer. She is thankful for her family, friends and church family of Piney Grove Baptist Church for the love and prayers that was given her. Thankful to God for allowing her to see both of her sons, Anthony and Antoine, to grow up and be married and  prosperous men: “I have been blessed with grandchildren Savanah, Gianna, Cameron, Nafts and Terry. I have learned that love is the key to healing and survival.”

• Keisha Way was born in 1980 and graduated from Southampton High School and then went to college in the field of Medical Assisting and Criminal Justice. “While working at Deerfield Correction Center in 2016, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had brain tumors. I have three wonderful children that help me as much as possible.” Keisha was unable to attend the Gala this year.

• Tracey Grant is a loving wife and mother. She is not only a mother to her biological children, but she has also become a shining light to many children in the community. Her and her husband work together with an endeavoring love to make a difference in the lives of the children in the community. Tracey was not able to attend the gala this year.

Pink is Powerful cancer support group would like to thank each and everyone who made this year a successful year.

Your support will enable us to continue to empower, encourage and educate survivors and families in our local community.