Spilling the Tea for a Cause: A Family of Survivors Hosts Bingo Night
A determined family of cancer survivors—hosted a community bingo night in support of the American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life.
Friday night, Fort Run Fire Department was transformed into a hub of love, laughter, and purpose as the “Let Us Spill the Tea” team—a determined family of cancer survivors - hosted a community bingo night in support of the American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life.
From 6 to 9 p.m., the fire hall buzzed with the sound of bingo calls, friendly chatter, and the occasional celebratory shout of “Bingo!” Guests enjoyed games, a silent auction, snacks, drinks, and rows of luminaries, all dedicated to raising funds and awareness in the fight against cancer.
At the heart of the evening was Shauna McMillan-Jones, a local woman whose strength and story have become a beacon for others. Flanked by her parents, Roy and Melvin McMillan, the event was not just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of life, survival, and community resilience.
Shauna’s Journey: From Alaska to North Carolina
“I spent 25 years in Alaska,” Jones told the crowd, wearing her purple Relay for Life jersey proudly, the number 85 on the back signifying the year Relay for Life first began in 1985. In January of 2014, at the age of 38, Jones was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, a rare and serious blood cancer caused by a missing 23rd chromosome, critical for producing red blood cells. “That’s where my life changed.”
Her journey led her to North Carolina in search of better care and family support. Doctors at Duke University told her she had only two years to live. “They said I’d need blood transfusions for the rest of my life,” she recalled. “And that a bone marrow transplant wasn’t an option. But I told myself—if I only have two years, I’m going to make them the best years I’ve got.”
More than a decade later, Jones is still here, thriving and giving back. Her transfusion schedule ranges from every four to 12 weeks, and while fatigue is a constant companion, so is her fight. “I get tired, I get worn out, but I’m still kicking,” she said, smiling through the weariness.
In 2017, she walked into the Fort Run Fire Department and met Chief Lloyd Carter Jr. “I told him right off—I’ll never fight a fire,” she remembered with a laugh. “But he looked me in the eye and said, ‘That’s okay. I have a spot for you anyway.” That moment marked the beginning of her second family. From helping with community outreach to organizing events, Jones quickly became a vital part of the department’s heartbeat. “I found purpose again here,” she said. “A reason to keep going.”
A Pageant, a Mission, and a New Purpose
That same year, Jones made a bold and inspiring move by entering the Miss Plus-Size North Carolina pageant. “I wanted to show that beauty doesn’t come with a size tag—and neither does strength,” she said. The pageant, which required 250 hours of community service, reignited her passion for giving back. That journey led her to the American Red Cross, where she organized blood drives, understanding deeply how those donations were her lifeline. “Every pint of blood gave me another chance,” she said, her voice tinged with gratitude. It was only natural that this would lead her to the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life, where her advocacy found a broader stage.
A Family’s Battle with Cancer
Jones isn’t fighting alone. Her mother, Melvin McMillan, is also a survivor, having faced her own cancer journey with quiet strength. “Mama Melvin doesn’t talk about it much,” Jones said, her voice softening. “But her strength—it’s the kind that doesn’t need words. She’s the glue that held us all together.”
Her stepfather, Roy, a longtime member of the Fort Run Fire Department, endured not one but two major battles—first with lung cancer, then adrenal gland cancer. “I could not lose my daddy,” Jones said, visibly emotional. During Roy’s treatments, Jones turned to faith. “I did a 40-day fasting prayer. That’s all I could do to hold it together.”
The determination of both Roy and Jones baffled doctors. Transfusions that once came every four weeks started stretching—first to 12 weeks, then 16, eventually to 24. “We’re stubborn like that,” she joked, drawing laughter from the crowd.
But their resilience was truly tested in January 2024. Roy collapsed unexpectedly, prompting an unwanted resuscitation and an emotionally grueling 160-day stay in a nursing home. “It was miserable,” Jones admitted. “For him, for all of us. We thought we might lose him.” Through it all, Melvin never left his side. “She was there, every single step, holding his hand and holding us up.”
Then, a miracle: Roy walked out of the hospital without oxygen. “That gave us hope again,” Jones said. “That reminded us why we keep going. Why we relay.”
Bingo Night: Laughter, Love, and Luminaries
With their stories fueling the mission, the team turned a bingo night into something unforgettable. Golden tablecloths covered long wooden tables as friends, family, and first-time guests settled in with snacks—chips, cookies, pretzels—and drinks ranging from soda to bottled water. Bingo cards were scattered across the tables, and the silent auction tables were filled with handmade gifts and items donated by family and friends.
Behind the stage, rows of luminaries lined up in honor and memory of loved ones affected by cancer, waiting to glow at a later time. “Every light tells a story,” Jones said, lifting one gently.
The Fire Department’s Sponsored Game Adds Extra Excitement
As the evening rolled on, excitement peaked during the Fort Run Fire Department-sponsored bingo round. “Alright y’all, grab your pink cards—we’re playing a wild double bingo: two straight lines!” Jones called out, her energy electric. Players eagerly shuffled their cards, doubling their chances by purchasing extra sheets.
“B-3, I-20, N-44, G-52, O-69,” she rattled off, the crowd leaning in closer with each number. The prize was a crisp $10 bill, and a $50 meal voucher was teased for a later round. “Let’s go!” someone shouted, as a chorus of laughter and competitive energy filled the room.
Then, it happened—“BINGO!” someone hollered, drawing cheers from the crowd. “Every dollar helps someone fighting cancer,” Jones reminded them, as the prize was handed out. The moment was fun, sure—but it also reflected a bigger purpose: joy and healing wrapped in generosity.
Hope, Healing, and an Unbreakable Spirit
As the final numbers were called and the last prizes claimed, the spirit of the evening lingered. Guests hugged, laughed, and shared stories—some deeply personal, others full of optimism. The event was about more than games or prizes. It was about standing up to cancer as a family, a department, and a community.
The team—now six survivors strong—raised $7,143.45 toward their $10,000 goal for the 2025 Relay for Life. Each dollar represented more than fundraising. It represented time, survival, second chances, and strength.
Across Town: Another Fundraiser for a Fighter
On the same night, just a few miles away, the Shine Volunteer Fire Department hosted a pancake supper for Warren Johnson, a local man fighting his own cancer battle. The simultaneous events served as a poignant reminder of Greene County’s deep-rooted compassion. “This town shows up,” one guest said. “When someone’s hurting, we all feel it—and we try to do something about it.”
As guests trickled out and the luminaries remained lined up behind the stage, Jones looked around the room—the community hall now quiet, but filled with the afterglow of something profound.
“This isn’t just about surviving,” she said. “It’s about fighting, loving, giving, and showing up. That’s what we’re doing. That’s why we spill the tea.” And they won’t stop until there’s a cure—and cancer is a thing of the past.
Hearts of Service: Greene County Celebrates Its 2025 Volunteer Heroes
On Monday evening, the Greene County Senior Center welcomed members of the community for a night of gratitude and celebration. Friends, families, and neighbors gathered to honor the recipients of the 2025 Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards—five outstanding individuals whose dedication has strengthened and uplifted the county.
Held during National Volunteer Week, the ceremony opened with a warm welcome from Sharon Harrison, director of the Senior Center and the county’s award coordinator.
“We appreciate everything you’ve done for Greene County,” Harrison said. “Volunteers worked at the food bank, churches, the animal shelter, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts—you name it. Without you, many services wouldn’t happen here. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.”
With applause filling the room, Harrison turned to spotlight the first honoree of the evening, a woman whose generosity had touched countless families: Michele Darden.
Michele Darden: Feeding Hearts and Homes
Michele Darden was the first to be honored, nominated in four categories: Individual, Health and Human Services, Lifetime Achievement, and Historically Underserved Populations. For decades, Darden has organized Thanksgiving meal distributions, ensuring no family in Greene County goes hungry during the holidays.
“About 300,” she answered softly when Harrison asked how many meals she typically served, drawing a few laughs and expressions of amazement from the crowd.
Teresa Burress, who introduced Darden, spoke to the heart behind the numbers. “This young lady gave from her heart and made sure anybody who wanted a Thanksgiving meal had a Thanksgiving meal. She didn’t just give them food—she gave them a piece of her heart.” Derek Burress then added a personal reflection, explaining how important Darden’s work had been for those experiencing grief and loneliness. “A lot of people don’t realize—when you lose your spouse, and you’re used to cooking for a family, suddenly it’s just you. She not only gave them a piece of her heart, she gave them a sense of belonging.”
Darden accepted her certificate with a gracious smile, grateful for the recognition but even more grateful for the opportunity to serve.
Alex and Danny Ellis: Building Futures Through Tennis
Alex and Danny Ellis were recognized for their work with the Greene County Tennis Association, nominated in the Community Service category. Over the past year, the Ellises volunteered more than 1,200 hours, serving as site directors for USTA junior tennis tournaments, managing scores, and assisting young players and families. They also raised funds for scholarships to cover equipment and travel expenses, opening doors for local youth to pursue competitive tennis.
Although the Ellises were away on spring break and unable to attend the ceremony, Harrison assured the crowd that their awards had been delivered to them afterward.
Chris Cooper: A Mentor for Young Dreamers
Chris Cooper was celebrated for his commitment to youth, nominated in the Individual and Youth categories. He volunteered more than 2,000 hours with Scouting America and Greene County Schools, leading outdoor programs, teaching survival skills, and mentoring students through camping trips designed to build leadership and teamwork.
His wife, Jennifer Avery, pinned him during the ceremony and shared why Cooper’s work mattered so much. “He took over Boy Scout Troop 74 when the leaders stepped down because our son had such a wonderful experience, and we didn’t want the troop to fall apart. Chris also restarted the Cub Scout pack and volunteered wherever the schools needed him.”
Cooper’s mentorship has provided countless students, especially those from single-parent homes, with a positive role model and valuable life skills.
John Britt and Rebecca Reagan: Champions for Shelter Animals
John Britt and Rebecca Reagan were honored for their devotion to the Greene County Animal Shelter, nominated in the Senior, Group, and Animals categories. Together, they volunteered more than 150 hours, organizing Thanksgiving and Christmas meals for the shelter animals and transporting pets to rescues, foster homes, and adoption events—a major reason the shelter’s adoption rate rose by 20% last year.
Bianca Dominguez, the liaison for the Greene County Animal Shelter, introduced their award, highlighting their extraordinary efforts. “They went above and beyond, making trips to South Carolina and across North Carolina to save deserving animals. Every time a transport or event came up, you could count on them.”
Their selfless work gave many dogs and cats a second chance at life, creating brighter futures for countless animals in need.
Sherrie Sledge: A Friend to Seniors
The final honoree, Sherrie Sledge, was recognized in the Individual and Seniors categories for her service with Meals on Wheels. For five years, Sledge delivered breakfast and lunch to homebound seniors, often providing their only human contact for the day. She also contributed to the Senior Center’s Frozen Meals Program and maintained a perfect delivery record, even in difficult weather.
Anna Moore pinned Sledge and presented her certificate with a smile.
A Community United in Gratitude
After the ceremony, attendees enjoyed a reception at the Senior Center, complete with a cake featuring the Governor’s seal. Renate Harper offered a closing blessing that captured the spirit of the night:
“Thank you for all of these wonderful volunteers. The world revolves around people helping other people, and we are grateful you provided those for us.”
In Greene County, service isn’t just an act—it’s the heart of the community.