Hope Shines Bright at McLeod Health’s 25th Evening of Hope in Florence
FLORENCE — On the evening of September 19th, the city of Florence glowed not just with the warm autumn weather but with the spirit of resilience and community. The 25th Annual Evening of Hope benefit, held at the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center, brought together around 400 attendees to celebrate the courage of cancer survivors and support the vital HOPE Fund.
Community and Support in Cancer Care
For many, like Judy Bibbo, Vice President of Cancer Services at McLeod Health, battling cancer goes beyond just accessing the right treatment. It’s about being part of a community where patients feel understood and valued. “The technology is remarkable, the facilities are beautiful,” Bibbo said, “but the heart of it all lies with the people.” This profound dedication to care was evident throughout the evening.
The HOPE Fund, short for Helping Oncology Patients Everyday, takes pride in assisting cancer patients on their journey. From transportation solutions to groceries, the fund ensures patients have what they need to focus on recovery. Bibbo explained how a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming—a process filled with anxiety, logistical challenges, and emotional hurdles.
A Night to Remember
As the evening unfolded, the venue buzzed with energy. Attendees enjoyed a delightful mix of live performances, delicious food, and inspiring stories from cancer survivors. Highlighted among them were six remarkable individuals, including Lynne Head, who has not only battled cancer but also works as a nurse. Head expressed her deep appreciation for the care she received and the unique perspective it offers her patients today.
Hg, cancer survivor, Helen Gooden shared her struggles during a video message, recounting the 45-minute daily commute for 33 rounds of radiation treatments. Thanks to the HOPE Fund offering gas cards, she found some relief during a challenging time. This type of personalized support has been crucial for many, including Head, who shared how a simple gift certificate helped her secure a sun hat for her upcoming beach trip, underscoring that healing encompasses both physical and emotional needs.
A Musical Treat
The evening was also filled with music and joy, featuring performances from Fran Coleman and The Emerald Empire. Coleman, serving as the master of ceremonies, ensured that attendees enjoyed every moment, with lively entertainment that had many dancing and singing along. The program highlighted not just the seriousness of cancer but its ongoing battle, marked with resilience and hope.
Performers included beloved groups such as The Shirelles and The Drifters, with McLeod’s very own Dr. Rajesh Bajaj showcasing his musical talents as well. The audience experienced a wide range of emotions, from laughter to tears, as stories of triumph and perseverance filled the night.
Honoring Survivors
The evening also honored several cancer survivors, including Joe Bibbo, Daryn Sasser, and Michael Branham. Short videos showcased their journeys and highlighted how the McLeod Center for Cancer Treatment and Research has made a difference as they navigated their respective battles with cancer.
Looking Ahead
As the night came to a close, it was clear that the McLeod Health’s HOPE Fund does far more than just provide financial assistance. It creates a network of support that acknowledges the complexities of cancer treatment and the varied needs of patients. With over 10 years of history embodying this mission, the community in Florence walks away not just hoping for more advancements in treatment, but with a testament to the power of hope and human connection.
For those seeking more information about the HOPE Fund and its initiatives, McLeod Health’s website offers updated resources and details on how to contribute to their vital mission.
