Linda Long, director of the Decatur County Breast Cancer Support Group, told the Bainbridge Lions Club Wednesday that she is excited about Decatur County and the compassion, love and support its people have for others.

She said that compassion, love and support would be on display today at the Celebration of Life breast cancer awareness lunch at the First United Methodist Church’s J.O. Smith Activities Building. It will get underway at 12 p.m.

“Our mission as a breast cancer support group is to support the ladies during diagnosis, treatment and recovery,” Long said.

“I retired from the Decatur County Department of Family and Children’s Services in 2000 and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because of early detection and surgery on Dec. 26, 2000, I am now cancer free.”

Long said she had to be cancer free for a year and go through training in order to direct a breast cancer support group.

“One in every eight households in Georgia will be struck by cancer. Support groups like ours give people hope throughout the state. Early detection is the key,” Long said.