Fundraiser to Benefit Cancer Patients

Cancer.

It’s the word that strikes fear in the hearts and minds of many.

But for patients, knowing that someone is there to help can make the transition from diagnosis to treatment easier.

It was the reason the Pickens County Cancer Association was founded in 2010. The volunteer-based organization offers mileage reimbursement for treatments, co-pay assistance, nutritional supplements, medical equipment and support groups for cancer patients in Pickens County.

But the Cancer Association needs your help in order to continue to help others.

This weekend, the organization will host its largest fundraiser ever, Pig Pickin’ for the PCCA at Old Market Square in downtown Easley. The money raised will go to provide services to cancer patients.

Cynthia Smoak, executive director, said the fundraiser, especially in the current economy, could help to extend more benefits to people living in Pickens County. She said March had been a record month for applications.

“We received 30 applications last month,” Smoak said. “Sadly, no one knew we were here until all the controversy came out over this fundraiser and the sale of alcohol downtown.”

The act was fraught with controversy, as many churches and individuals in Easley were opposed to the idea.

“We have to have good attendance at this event,” Smoak said. “We need to raise the funds to be able to help these 30 people.”

But even after the cancer association won the fight and council had passed the ordinance, some disapproving members of the public are still working to sabotage the event, Smoak said.

Unsigned emails are circulating in the community asking, people not to attend, according to Smoak.

But still she is hopeful.

“It’s going to be a great event,” Smoak said. “Food and entertainment on both nights and all to help cancer patients in Pickens County.”

The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Friday night is all-you-can-eat chicken wings for $10 with beverages available for purchase. Entertainment on Friday will be the Snopes Family Band of Greenville.

Saturday will be a barbeque competition sanctioned by the South Carolina Barbeque Association. The day will offer all you can eat barbecue for $10, with other beverages and concessions available for purchase.

Entertainment will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday with the Bottom Line Band, followed by the Dockside Band at 1 p.m. and $2pistol at 3 p.m.

Volunteers, vendors and barbecue cookers are still being accepted.

For more information, contact the PCCA at 864-508-2049 or visit their website.