Several dozen people settled in to the outdoor patio area at Duarte Nursery on Sunday, Aug. 23 as the local Relay For Life of Greater Central Valley hosted its annual Survivor and Caregiver Luncheon.

With some guest speakers, an update on the recent 2026 Relay and the outlook for 2027, along with the luncheon and drawings for free giveaway items, the event was a success. Attendees came from throughout the region, including Oakdale, Turlock, Escalon, Modesto, Ceres, Hughson, and more, joining together for the food and fellowship.

It was a celebration of cancer survivors and also a chance to recognize and honor the caregivers that make the journey with them.

Information about a number of upcoming events – many that will serve as fundraisers for the 2027 Relay – was available on site, and several members of the ELT, Event Leadership Team, were on hand as well to assist attendees and answer any questions about Relay For Life and the local event. It has been staged the last few years at Johansen High School in Modesto and is tentatively planned for mid-May 2027.

“We haven’t quite locked down the dates yet,” Event Chair Irene Cortez told the crowd, adding that the information will be made available as soon as possible.

Serving as the main guest speaker was Reverend Dr. Robert Johson, a five-time cancer survivor, who shared his story of perseverance and hope. He currently serves as the chaplain at Emanuel Medical Center in Turlock.

Also taking the microphone was survivor Sarah Barrentine, active in the Relay For Life of Greater Central Valley, and a member of the Chemo Crew, providing some information about that support group while also talking about her own cancer journey. Meetings of the cancer support group are hosted the first and third Wednesdays of the month at United Way, 422 McHenry Ave., Modesto. There are two sessions offered, the first from noon to 1 p.m., the second from 6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

For more information, contact them at 209-216-6271 or email thechemocrew@gmail.com