The Multi-County Cancer Support Network hosted their 32nd Annual Walkathon this past Friday night at the old high school football field on Dinah Shore Boulevard. Members of the Franklin County community and beyond came together as survivors, fighters, and loved ones to support those in the midst of battle with cancer, celebrate those who have survived, and honor those who have been lost along the way.
The event kicked off at 6:00 p.m. with a warm welcome, opening prayer, the posting of the colors, the National Anthem, and the Pledge of Allegiance. At 6:15 p.m., the Survivor Lap started as Mr. Chris Staples from Lynchburg Church of Christ sang Amazing Grace and the balloons were released as the cancer survivors had the honor of taking the first lap around the track in recognition of their victory.
Following the survivors’ ceremonial first lap, teams took to the track to walk in support of those still fighting cancer and in remembrance of those who have passed. As participants circled the field with unwavering dedication, live musical entertainment filled the air, featuring performances by Josh Gain, Fischer and Hunter Hill—also known as “Little Elvis”—Troy Durham, and Josh Ogle and family. Meanwhile, attendees enjoyed a variety of activities as kids tossed footballs on the field, community members placed bids in the silent auction, and raffle tickets were sold for a handmade quilt and a Jack Daniels barrel. The Kid’s Zone kept younger guests smiling with face painting, a duck pond, and a new crowd favorite added this year, a dunk tank.
At 9:00 p.m., the flag was lowered and presented, followed by a candlelight service and remembrance ceremony. In keeping with tradition, paper lanterns lined the entire track, each bearing the name of someone currently battling cancer or someone who had passed after their fight. At the center of the field stood the Circle of Light Candles—lanterns placed by the MCCSN in memory of those who succumbed to their battle within the past year. As the field lights dimmed, the glow of the lanterns and the quiet reverence of the moment illuminated the night. Pastor Jerry Broome of Decherd Methodist Church delivered a message of hope, support, and faith. In the grandstands, attendees sat in solemn silence as, one by one, the names of those lost since the last walkathon were read aloud, each followed by the toll of a bell in their honor.
The walkathon is a community fundraising event held to raise money for the MCCSN, a registered 501(C)3 nonprofit organization that provides emotional, educational, and financial assistance to cancer patients who reside in the eight-county area that includes Beford, Coffee, Franklin, Grundy, Lincoln, Marion, Moore, and Warren counties. All proceeds go to benefit local cancer patients.
The theme for this year’s walkathon was “Your Fight is Our Fight”, with a special emphasis on those fighting cancer being a warrior in their own right.
“I looked up what the dictionary’s definition of a warrior is.”, stated Terry Tucker, President of the MCCSN Board of Directors. “We don’t think of our patients as winners or losers but as warriors.”
The event closed with the drawing for the quilt, that was donated by Material Girls Quilt Guild, final plaque presentations, and a closing message delivered by Terry Tucker.
As the evening drew to a close, the glow of lanterns and the echo of names reminded everyone why they had gathered—to stand together in hope, remembrance, and unwavering support. The 32nd Annual Walkathon was a testament to the strength of a community united against cancer. The night served not only as a tribute to those who were lost to the fight, but also as a beacon of encouragement for those still fighting, and a reminder that no one walks alone. With every step taken, every song sung, and every name honored, Franklin County once again proved that love, resilience, and compassion shine brightest in the darkest moments.
