Relay For Life: Cancer Survivor Breakfast Kicks Off June 2

When the South St. Paul Area Relay For Life team gets together on June 2 at , it is not likely to be a somber ceremony of tear-filled goodbyes.

In fact, according to those involved in planning the annual Survivor Breakfast, the occasion promises to be a joyous one and the mood inspirational.

"At the South St. Paul Area Survivor Breakfast, attendees can expect to enjoy good food, with great company, all while hearing inspiring stories of triumph from the true heroes in our lives ... cancer survivors," said Nick Pilger, Community Relations Manager for the American Cancer Society of Minnesota.

Breakfast is open to survivors, caregivers and families and is scheduled to be served at 9 a.m., followed by a short program and presentation of prizes.

The cost of attendance is $5, except for cancer survivors, who eat free.

Planning the annual breakfast is always a stressful process but for Jaime Ann Ross, co-chair of the SSP Area Relay for Life team, it is a rewarding one.

"It is important to support survivors in their journey through cancer with programs and events to connect them to other people that are going through what they are going through," Ross told Patch. "Every survivor is an inspiration to newly diagnosed survivors. Survivors are why we relay."

One of the biggest challenges, Ross said, is getting the word out and making sure the number of RSVPs matches the quantity of food available. 

"If everyone continues spreading the word to everyone they know who is a survivor about the event it would be a huge help. We've got all the food under control for this year but in future years having a corporate sponsor to cover costs would be amazing," Ross said.

For Pilger, the Survivor's Breakfast is an annual opportunity to reboot and rejuvenate. 

"This event is so important because it allows all of us who spend many months planning for the Relay For Life the opportunity to take a step back and remember and honor the true reasons why we do what we do," he said.

Anyone looking to learn more about the event or get involved with the South St. Paul Area Relay for Life team is encouraged to check out the Relay website or Facebook page.

Survivors and family members can RSVP for the event by emailing rflssp@yahoo.com.