Stepping In, Standing Beside: Laurens County Cancer Association Becomes a Support System When One is Needed Most

At the Laurens County Cancer Association (LCCA), the mission goes far beyond financial assistance or monthly check-ins—it’s about walking alongside people during one of the most difficult journeys of their lives. Executive Director Anna Drew Miller knows this firsthand, not only through her leadership role but through deeply personal connections formed with the clients LCCA serves.

“Sometimes, people don’t have a support system for whatever reason—and we become that for them,” Miller said. “We step up so they don’t feel alone.”

That sense of presence and shared humanity lies at the heart of LCCA’s work. And while the organization is often known for providing tangible help to cancer patients, the emotional toll of the journey is quietly, powerfully woven into every interaction.

“We come together in times of need,” Miller said. “We support each other through conversations, shared tears, and cherished stories about our friends facing challenges.”

Loss is a painful part of this work—especially when clients become friends. Miller recently shared about the passing of two such individuals, and she described how grief doesn’t pull the team apart but brings them closer together.

“Grief is what gives us the strength to keep showing up for others,” she said. “There is no separation between grief and being present for those in need—they are interconnected and motivating.”

Uncertainty is one of the hardest aspects of the cancer journey. No one, not even doctors, can predict how a patient will respond to treatment. At LCCA, the team focuses on what they can control—bringing hope and comfort each day they see their clients.

Through these moments, bonds form—between staff, volunteers, clients, and caregivers. The LCCA office becomes a space where strangers share stories, laugh, grieve, and encourage one another. One special memory stands out in Miller’s mind: a client named Tina who had a gift for nurturing plants. Before her passing, Tina gave clippings from her Christmas Cactuses and Jade Plant to the LCCA team.

“In my office, I have a jade plant I’ve affectionately named Tina,” said Miller. “We also have a Peace Lily that her husband gave us in her memory. It’s a living tribute to the connection we built.”

That sense of community extends to caregivers, too—those silent heroes supporting loved ones through treatment. Whether it’s a teenager driving their parent to appointments or a spouse walking the same difficult path, LCCA makes it clear: their experiences matter just as much. All caregivers are welcome to join support groups and find their own place of understanding.

But it’s not all sorrow. LCCA regularly celebrates moments of joy—especially when a client rings the bell to mark the end of treatment. These small victories are shared during the “Living with Cancer” support group meetings, where the entire LCCA family comes together to cheer each milestone.

“It’s heartwarming,” Miller said. “We create a space where everyone’s journey is acknowledged and celebrated. I believe it sets a precedent that individuals don’t have to face their journey alone if they choose not to.”

At the core of everything LCCA does is gratitude, joy, and a steadfast refusal to let anyone face cancer without someone by their side. Many of LCCA’s volunteers are survivors or caregivers themselves, making their empathy all the more real.

“Every day, I hear one of our volunteers encouraging others to choose joy,” Miller said. “They emphasize the importance of praying and relying on others for support during difficult times.”

LCCA’s volunteers and Office Manager are often the first line of contact for clients—offering a warm welcome, listening ear, and words of encouragement at each step of the journey. The organization recognizes that the meaningful relationships built with clients would not be possible without the dedication of these team members, whose presence makes all the difference from the very first hello.

The emotional investment of the LCCA team fuels their mission and motivates the hard work of fundraising, event planning, and community outreach. It’s a calling, not a job.

“We might be used to hearing the dreaded words, ‘I have cancer,’ but that doesn’t mean we don’t care,” Miller said. “It means we’re strong enough to be a part of your journey—wherever you want us to fit in.”

The community plays a vital role in this mission—not only through donations but by showing up. Whether attending events, sending notes of encouragement, or taking the time to schedule a cancer screening in honor of someone, every act makes a difference.

“You’re not just donating money—you are actively helping someone in our community,” Miller said.

Through it all, LCCA stands as a steady presence in the lives of those navigating uncertainty. They celebrate the highs, mourn the losses, and offer friendship and hope—especially for those who might otherwise walk alone.

For more information on the Laurens County Cancer Association or how to get involved, visit their website. To make a donation in support of their work click here.