YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – June 2 is National Cancer Survivors Day. To commemorate this, Relay for Life Yuma County will host a Survivor Gala to celebrate and honor survivors and caregivers.

This year, we have some amazing sponsors joining us, including Chef Jonathan Palacio of A Cut Above Meals, to elevate the experience into a big party.

“We know that cancer takes away a lot of memories and experiences from cancer survivors,” said Amber Thornton with Relay for Life Yuma County, “so we wanted to give them an opportunity to create those memories and have new ones for the future.”

Dinner will be prepared by Chef Palacios and will feature roasted airline chicken in a honey garlic Dijon sauce, served with roasted broccolini and truffle mashed potatoes.

Palacios said this year's event is especially significant because of how it affected him personally.

“A member of my family, actually my mother, was diagnosed with cancer,” Palacios said. “She had to close the store and stop catering and preparing food for the public. I just helped her out, and in the process, I realized what was important.”

The celebration is an opportunity for cancer survivors and their loved ones to come together and commemorate their journey.

“It's inspiring to hear the different stories of people affected by cancer. We had some great speakers last year and are looking forward to this year's,” Thornton said. “I think each year the event brings something different to the table, depending on the goals of those attending and what their circumstances are throughout the year.”

For more information on Relay for Life of Yuma County and how to donate to the American Cancer Society, Website.