The first to walk the track at many Relay for Life events this year will be those who have experienced the fight with cancer first–hand – the survivors.

To honor their courage and passion for helping others beat the disease, the Novella Club of Columbiana will host a South Shelby Relay for Life Survivor’s Dinner Monday, May 17 at 6:30 p.m. The free event will be held at the First Baptist Church of Columbiana.

Chairwoman Peggy Wood said they began hosting the dinner about 10 years ago. She said it started out as a hotdog dinner the night of the relay and grew to something more.

“I think its important to celebrate life – to recognize the survivors and let them know we’re there for them and to encourage them,” Wood said.

The guest speaker for the event will be Major Damon Holditch, who will talk about his experience on tour in Iraq.

The picnic–style dinner will include hamburgers, vegetables, salads and homemade desserts.

To RSVP for the dinner, call Wood at 669–9073.