Drew Stewart is no stranger to Clarendon County, nor is he averse to sharing his long journey and battle with brain cancer.
A Summerton native, Stewart will be the featured speaker Thursday at the annual Clarendon County Relay for Life Survivors’ Reception, which will be held from 6-8 p.m. at the Clarendon Community Center behind Weldon Auditorium.
Stewart was working as a reporter with WIS-TV in Columbia in the mid 2000s when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He underwent surgery, with his former station documenting his recovery through a blog. He later went on to work for WACH-FOX in Columbia as well.
Thursday’s reception is for all survivors and caregivers in Clarendon County and surrounding areas. The event is free to the public and serves as a way for the Clarendon County Relay for Life Committee to celebrate those dealing with cancer.
It also helps the committee register new survivors and also re-register continuing survivors.
“We have to register survivors each and every year because we don’t save those records,” said Survivors Chairwoman Pat Fenters. “So, we ask all survivors to come out and get registered. We want to show the American Cancer Society exactly how much Clarendon is affected by cancer.”
Relay for Life liaison Debbie Alexander said the aid that Clarendon residents get from the organization can be based off survivor numbers.
“The more you have registered, the better the American Cancer Society will know how to help in your area,” she said.
Thursday’s reception will feature a catered dinner by Lamar Kennedy, with desserts from Brandi Wheeler of The Manning Restaurant.
“We want all survivors to come out and feel welcome and loved,” said Relay for Life 2016 Co-chairwoman Leigh Ann Maynard. “We understand that some survivors are more private about their battles, but this is a chance to celebrate their recoveries and also to remember those who are not able to be here with us.”
The reception also serves as the last stop before the actual Relay for Life event, which will be held 6 p.m. to midnight May 6 at Manning High School’s Ramsey Stadium.
This year’s event – titled “Carnival for a Cure” – will feature Justin Shorter’s race car, a “Hot Air Balloon Photo Booth” from ReMax, bounce houses, carnival games, peanuts and more.
For more information, call (803) 435-8422, or email mtsceditorial@gmail.com.
