Special to Iredell Free News
Iredell Health System and the Iredell Health Foundation will host a Cancer Survivor event on June 3 at 7 p.m. during the Statesville Owls’ season opener at West Iredell High School in Statesville.
The event is being held in conjunction with National Cancer Survivors Day, a holiday meant to recognize cancer survivors, raise awareness of the ongoing challenges these survivors face and, most importantly, celebrate life.
In the U.S. alone, there are more than 18 million cancer survivors, and that number is expected to increase to 22.2 million by 2030. Anyone living with a history of cancer – from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life – is a cancer survivor, according to the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation.
At the event, cancer survivors will receive free admission to the game and be treated to a number of giveaways and recognition. Survivors will be invited to walk the bases at a designated time in between innings, sign a special survivor board, and participate in several other activities.
A survivor will also be invited to throw out the first pitch.
Families are encouraged to attend as well. Admission is $6 per person.
“We are excited to be able to offer this event as a way to recognize cancer survivors in our community,” said Shellie Brown, who works at Iredell Health System’s J. Allen Knox Radiation Therapy Center and is leading the event. “This will serve as a celebration for those who have survived, an inspiration for those recently diagnosed, and a gathering of support for families.”
The Statesville Owls are an independent college summer baseball team and part of the Southern Collegiate Baseball League. West Iredell High School is located at 213 Warrior Drive, Statesville.
About Iredell Health Foundation
The Iredell Health Foundation is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization responsible for philanthropy for Iredell Health System. It supports the system’s programs and services through donor-centered fundraising. The Foundation focuses on raising community awareness of specific programs that need funding and provides individuals and organizations hoping to make a difference and leave a legacy the opportunity to support local healthcare needs of their choice. To learn more, or to make a donation, visit www.iredellhealthfoundation.org or call 704-878-7669.