Cancer Survivors Honored at Annual Dinner in Albany

The American Cancer Society's Survivor's Dinner celebrates those who have won their battle with cancer.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Cancer survivors in Albany, Georgia will be honored at the annual Survivor's Dinner hosted by the American Cancer Society and First Baptist Church of Albany on March 24. The free event features a special meal, live music, games, and a chance for survivors and their families to celebrate and support one another.

Why it matters

The Survivor's Dinner is an important community event that recognizes the strength and resilience of those who have faced cancer. It provides an opportunity for survivors to connect, share their experiences, and find hope and encouragement from one another.

The details

The Survivor's Dinner will take place at First Baptist Church of Albany and is organized by volunteers from the American Cancer Society, including Demetria Redding and Cathy Shoemaker. The meal will be prepared by the church's kitchen staff, led by Danielle Green and Norma Jean Harris. In addition to the dinner, the event will feature live music, games like cornhole and horseshoes, a recipe contest, and line dancing.

  • The Survivor's Dinner is scheduled for March 24, 2026.
  • Registration for the event is open until March 10, 2026.

The players

Demetria Redding

A volunteer with the American Cancer Society who helps organize the Survivor's Dinner.

Cathy Shoemaker

A long-time nurse and co-chair of the event organizing committee for the Survivor's Dinner.

Danielle Green

The kitchen manager at First Baptist Church of Albany who will be preparing the meal for the Survivor's Dinner.

Norma Jean Harris

A cook at First Baptist Church of Albany who will be assisting with the meal preparation for the Survivor's Dinner.

Spencer Kinkade

The student pastor at First Baptist Church of Albany, which has hosted the Survivor's Dinner since its inception.

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What they’re saying

“Something magical always happens at this event.”

— Demetria Redding, American Cancer Society volunteer (Albany Herald)

“Cancer changes lives. We hold this dinner to celebrate survivors; it's about families, friends and the impact God can have on their lives. Everyone blesses each other, supports each other.”

— Cathy Shoemaker, Event organizer and long-time nurse (Albany Herald)

“We are grateful to participate in this celebration. I have not been personally affected by cancer, but I have family and friends who have been, so I know what (survivors) have been through. I'm just grateful for the opportunity to give back.”

— Danielle Green, First Baptist Church kitchen manager (Albany Herald)

“Cancer doesn't discriminate, but neither does hope.”

— Spencer Kinkade, First Baptist Church student pastor (Albany Herald)

What’s next

Cancer survivors and a guest can register to attend the Survivor's Dinner by calling (229) 343-6130 by March 10, 2026.

The takeaway

The Survivor's Dinner is an important annual event that celebrates the strength and resilience of cancer survivors in the Albany community. By providing a supportive and uplifting environment, the dinner helps survivors and their loved ones find hope and healing in the aftermath of a difficult journey.