Participating in the Sherry’s Run 5K Run/Walk Event each September is one way our community comes together to show love and support to those who are battling cancer.

All funds raised from the event stay local to help families facing a cancer diagnosis with everything from medical bills to monthly living expenses. But a little-known ministry supported by the organization may be its best kept secret: a monthly support group meeting for cancer patients and their caregivers. 

The group, which meets at the Gibbs Educational Center, is FREE and is available for anyone who is affected by cancer and needs hope. “We believe in bearing one another’s burdens,” says Trayce Sackman, who attends the group with her mother and daughter. All three generations of women are cancer survivors, making them a fearsome trifecta of cancer warriors. “I would encourage anyone who has been affected by cancer to join our support group family. Cancer can’t keep this group down,” says Sackman. 

Avalon Healthcare has partnered with Sherry’s Run to sponsor the support group since its inception in 2018. Stephanie Elliott, a social worker for Avalon Healthcare, facilitates the discussion. “The members determine the need. Whatever they need to share, we discuss. Having people who have a commonality makes you realize you are not alone in this fight.”

Participating in the Sherry’s Run 5K Run/Walk Event each September is one way our community comes together to show love and support to those who are battling cancer. All funds raised from the event stay local to help families facing a cancer diagnosis with everything from medical bills to monthly living expenses. But a little-known ministry supported by the organization may be its best kept secret: a monthly support group meeting for cancer patients and their caregivers.

The group, which meets at the Gibbs Educational Center, is FREE and is available for anyone who is affected by cancer and needs hope. “We believe in bearing one another’s burdens,” says Trayce Sackman, who attends the group with her mother and daughter. All three generations of women are cancer survivors, making them a fearsome trifecta of cancer warriors. “I would encourage anyone who has been affected by cancer to join our support group family. Cancer can’t keep this group down,” says Sackman.  

Avalon Healthcare has partnered with Sherry’s Run to sponsor the support group since its inception in 2018. Stephanie Elliott, a social worker for Avalon Healthcare, facilitates the discussion. “The members determine the need. Whatever they need to share, we discuss. Having people who have a commonality makes you realize you are not alone in this fight.”

Jill Smith attends the group with her husband Timmy, a survivor who is now celebrating being cancer free and is able to offer support of his own to the attendees. “The group met both of our needs. As a patient, he needed a place to vent his frustrations. I needed a place to meet others struggling to care for a loved one undergoing cancer treatments,” says Jill.

Scotty Ricketts, an executive board member of Sherry’s Run, wants everyone to know about the love, knowledge, and friendship the support group offers. “Being involved in the group is a blessing. You may even discover that God uses you to bless the others in the group.” Ricketts also states that laughing and crying are not only allowed, but encouraged, so feel free to bring all of your emotions with you. You will find a loving group of encouragers who are ready to welcome you into their fold and share their strength.  

The Sherry’s Run monthly support group meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at the Gibbs Educational Center at 4:00. If you would like more information about the group, or if you or someone you know is undergoing cancer treatment and in need of assistance, please call 615-925-9932 or email sherrysrunhelp@gmail.com.

Sherry’s Run is a non-profit organization that works throughout the year to provide hope to those battling cancer in our community by offering emotional encouragement and financial assistance with everyday needs. In addition, Sherry’s Run works to spread colon health awareness by distributing colon cancer screening tests and providing colonoscopy assistance. To find out more call 615-925-2592 or email info@sherrysrun.org.  To make a donation to Sherry’s Run, click here or mail donations to Sherry’s Run, P.O. Box 8, Lebanon, TN 37088-0088.