FRANKLIN
Audrey Lee is feeling quite gratified by the turnout at the recent annual Shades of Pink Gala.

“More than 300 people attended. We exceeded our goal, and this will allow us to continue our support group for next year,” said Lee, who is the founder of the Pink Is Powerful Breast Cancer Support Group.

With the $8,000-plus raised through ticket sales, she anticipates that services the organization can offer will be “very similar to last year. We’ll have monthly meetings, a meet-and-greet, and invite different speakers.”

Dr. Victor Archie from Sentara Obici Hospital, who specializes in radiation oncology therapy, has been a recent speaker, as well as Roz Stanley has given a talk about stress and depression, which can accompany a bout of cancer. Amy Peterson, also of Obici, who helps patients navigate the ordeal, and Rochelle Anderson of Relay For Life have been other guests.

Other services to continue will include giving inspirational talks, presenting care packages, flowers, cards, and even contributing money for patients who might need fuel to get to doctors’ appointments.

Above all, Lee wants the group to remain available to those who need it.

“We want to make ourselves accessible — to have people call us and feel comfortable doing so. We want to educate, reach out and inspire,” she said, and added that Pink is Powerful is faith-based.

Lee said she wanted to especially thank Corey Olds and Dan Brown of the Empowering and Uplifting Foundation, Mark Schnur and all the donors to the event and support group.

During the gala, the following survivors and caregivers were honored:

Sandra Smith (Supporter/Caregiver); Gwendolyn Jones (Survivor); Latoya Murphy-Griffin (Survivor); Vianne Olds (Supporter/Caregiver; Jacqueline Washington (Survivor/Daughter); and Geraldine Odom (Survivor/Mother).

For details about the Pink is Powerful Breast Cancer Support Group, call Lee at 556-5765 or 742-6081.