Third annual ‘A Midsummer’s Evening of Hope in Early County’ set for June 21

BLAKELY — Cancer is a disease that has affected almost everyone in one way or another and, according to the Centers for Disease Control, is the second leading cause of death in the United States.

In order to join the fight against cancer and lower these statistics, Primary Care of Southwest Georgia is partnering with the Cancer Coalition of South Georgia to host the third annual “A Midsummer’s Evening of Hope in Early County” on June 21 in the Methodist Church Fellowship Hall located at 397 College St. in Blakely.

Brooks Carter, the outreach and enrollment specialist with PCSG, said PCSG has been providing high quality, affordable primary and preventative care for the people in and near Blakely for over 12 years. PCSG is a federally-qualified health center and fighting against cancer is an important part of their mission.

“Preventing and controlling cancer is a vital part of what we do,” Carter said. “Together, we raised over $7,300 last year to help local patients receive needed screenings in the fight against cancer.”

The event will last from 6-9 p.m. with the doors opening at 5 p.m. to begin the viewing and bidding of items at the silent auction. The event includes a buffet dinner, both a silent and a live auction and live entertainment from Mike English.

Angie Cleveland, breast cancer survivor and Blakely resident, will be the guest speaker for this year’s event. She owns the Options Styling Salon and is married to Jeff Cleveland, whom she has four children with.

Cleveland was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in September of 2009. After undergoing a mastectomy, eight chemo treatments and 35 radiation treatments she is cancer free. She is an advocate for breast cancer research and will be sharing her experiences at the event.

All funds raised will be used to help continue the battle against cancer. The money will be used to benefit the community in ways such as increasing cancer screenings for Early County residents.

“Unlike national cancer organizations, all funds raised will stay right here to help your families, friends, neighbors and coworkers,” Carter said.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and must be purchased in advance at $20 per ticket. Purchases can be made at Primary Care’s 360 College St. office or at LifeBrite Community Hospital of Early. Other ways to benefit the event include business and individual sponsorship, or any level of financial or auction item donation.

“Investing in this important event will benefit you and all our community here in Early County,” Carter said. “Everyone is welcome to attend.”

For more information regarding “A Midsummer’s Evening of Hope in Early County” contact Carter at (229)723-2660 ext. 7139 or [email protected].

PCSG