A large crowd attended the annual “In the Pink” Celebration of Life luncheon on Saturday, Sept. 29, at the First United Methodist Church’s J.O. Smith Building.

This year’s event, sponsored by the Decatur County Breast Cancer Support Group, was dedicated to the memory of Joyce Robinson, a co-facilitator since she was diagnosed in 2005, until her death April 23, 2012.

A special slide show, developed by Janice Eakin, was shown depicting Joyce’s work with the support group, as well as her family and community life. Joyce’s son, Ed, his wife Amy and their son Josh were present for the recognition.

The program was narrated by Linda Long, facilitator of the local Breast Cancer Support Group. Long organized the local group following her own diagnosis in December 2000. She took training in December 2001 from the Breast Cancer Survivor’s Network Inc. of Atlanta, to organize the local chapter.

She spoke briefly about the importance of the work, which includes helping with gas money for those traveling for treatments, operating a clothes closet and other resources, but mostly of the emotional support provided.

“Only another survivor knows what you are going through when you hear that diagnosis,” Long said.

Assisting Long as a co-facilitator was Marie Hendrie, a nine-year survivor.

The event featured a luncheon and fashion show from Belk, emceed by Tanya Crum. Some of the models were breast cancer survivors. They were Edna Bromfield, a 20-year survivor; Susan Ralph, 10 year-survivor; Ruby Horne, 15 years; Donna Hart, three years and Kay Wheeler, two years.

Other models were Chandra Casteel, Mackenzie Hand, Cathryn Vanstone, Rosemary Harrell, Mackenzie Antis, Bridget Collier, Sara Timmons and Anna Claire Moore.

The names of members known to have died since the group was formed were read. They were: Fannie Handsford, Elaine Miller, Frankie Bowen and Eula Mae Baldwin.

Special music was provided by vocalist Rosemary Harrell and pianist Mandy Thompson.

Many door prizes contributed by local businesses and individuals were given away, as well as a variety of donated items, awarded in a silent auction. A special raffle prize of a Brighton handbag donated by Reeves Linens and Gifts. was won by Rosanne Green.