For the past 13 years visitors from Saint Mark United Methodist Church, South Carolina have been a part of a ongoing mission trip to Eleuthera. Their most recent visit took place from October 21st to 28th. A group of 19 persons from Saint Mark volunteered with the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and other organizations on Eleuthera.
The group is headed by Lynn and Bob Dobson and they have been a faithful team of amazing volunteers helping Eleuthera through hardwork and a lasting impact on the lives of many people within the Eleutheran community. The volunteers were invloved in various projects on the island, including: helping with the building construction at the Cancer Society of Eleuthera, education and training sessions at the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI), fellowship with the Breast Cancer Outreach Program (BCOP), car repair assistance at the South Eleuthera Emergency Partners (SEEP) Tarpum Bay location as well as helping to setup a library at the Rock Sound Primary School. They also delivered book donations from Hamilton College to CTI.
Since its commencement, a segment of the team has always taken a very keen interest in the Eleuthera Cancer Society and Eleuthera women with cancer. This year was no different. Lynn Dobson, a three time cancer survivor herself, along with two other survivors from the group linked up with Eleuthera Cancer Society and the One Eleuthera Breast Cancer Outreach Program to have special fellowship sessions with members of the local cancer support group. Hosting the visiting group was Ms. Maisie Thompson, Community Outreach Coordinator of the One Eleuthera Foundation and Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Outreach Program (BCOP).
Sessions took the team throughout the island touching base with survivors. Some have been long time acquaintances over the years and some, newly diagnosed. During the fellowship sessions, the ladies shared victories and challenges of their cancer journeys. Each encouraged the other as they focused on the feelings of survivors’ guilt. Carolyn Keese and Kelly Rush who accompanied Lynn Dobson each shared with the local women giving helpful tips that are beneficial for them. Some of the Sub-topics the ladies discussed included: Do something for you, Self-care, Set a goal, Why did I survive? Beware of stress, I am my own CEO and Keep positive people around. The ladies were each encouraged to listen to the medical professionals’ advice and to design their own unique wellness practices.
The yearly visits have produced a strong bond of support and encouragement among the special group of ladies. It is evident that they each are survivors for a special purpose and that purpose is to be their sisters’ keeper.
To find out more about how you can volunteer with One Eleuthera please visit: www.oneeleuthera.org
