Cancer survivors, families, caregivers, and healthcare heroes gathered at the Power House on Saturday August 10, 2025 for a heartfelt and joy-filled Cancer Survivors Day celebration, hosted by the UNC Health Nash Foundation and UNC Cancer Care at Nash. With this year’s theme, “Hats Off to Cancer!” the event honored the strength, resilience, and spirit of those who have faced cancer — and emerged stronger.
The event was made possible thanks to generous sponsorship from Boddie-Noell Enterprises and the Power House, whose support helped create a vibrant and welcoming event for survivors and their loved ones to relax, connect, and celebrate life.
A Festive Event with Thoughtful Touches
Guests were greeted with upbeat music from a live DJ, setting the tone for a lively afternoon. One of the most popular activities of the day was hat pressing, where attendees could customize their own hats — a perfect tie-in to the event’s theme and a fun, creative takeaway.
In addition to music and ice cold soft drinks provided by Rocky Mount Mills, survivors were treated to complimentary hand massages, offering a moment of relaxation. Above all, the energy throughout the Power House was contagious, with smiles, hugs, and laughter shared among old friends and new connections alike.
Home-Cooked Hospitality from the Heart
A highlight of the celebration was the delicious food, thoughtfully prepared and served by Boddie-Noell Enterprises’ home office employees and senior management from Hardee’s. With a true spirit of service and community, team members stepped away from their desks and into aprons, offering guests a hearty meal with genuine smiles and warm conversation. From Hardee’s famous hand-breaded chicken tenders to creamy mashed potatoes, the meal reflected the same care and commitment shown throughout the event.
Door Prizes, Photos & Giveaways Add to the Fun
Thanks to generous donations from the community and staff at UNC Health Nash, lucky attendees walked away with exciting door prizes and giveaways, adding even more fun to the celebration. Prizes included beautiful embroidered tote bags, thoughtfully curated gift baskets, and gift cards to restaurants and attractions like Rose Hill Sporting Clays. Moreover, talented photographers Kayla Scott and Orah Pierce graciously donated their talents to document the event. The spirit of generosity and community was felt in every detail, from the thoughtful planning to the warm hospitality extended by volunteers and staff.
Cancer Care Close at Home
“We’re incredibly fortunate to have such an outstanding cancer treatment center right here in Rocky Mount,” said Jackie Turner, a cancer survivor and General Manager of Rose Hill. “Having access to world-class care close to home—without the need to travel to Raleigh—is truly a blessing for so many families.”
But Cancer Care at Nash doesn’t just provide expert treatment—its dedicated staff offers hope and comfort when it’s needed most. Alongside this care, the UNC Health Nash Foundation steps in to support families in ways that medicine alone can’t. Whether it’s providing gift cards for groceries and gas or specialized food pantry boxes, the Foundation ensures that people facing a cancer diagnosis have access to the additional help they need.
Looking Ahead
As the event came to a close, survivors and their families gathered to take a group photo. The photo will be featured on a banner and will hang at UNC Health Nash. Cancer Survivors Day 2025 was not just a celebration. It was a testament to the strength of community and the enduring hope that lives in every survivor’s story. The Power House looks forward to hosting this event in years to come.
To learn more about the UNC Health Nash Foundation or how to support their mission, visit www.NashUNCFoundation.org .