photos by: JODIE BRIM CREATIVE
Special Moments Venue had the incredible honor of hosting the 3rd Annual iChoose Joy Cancer Survivor’s Brunch—and this event was so much more than just a brunch. It was a powerful day of celebration, honoring the lives, strength, and victories of everyday superheroes in our community. Some of our honorees have bravely overcome cancer, while others are still courageously fighting. The types of cancer represented this year included:
- Brain cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Triple-negative breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Melanoma
- Multiple myeloma
- Lymphoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma of the neck
- Endometrial cancer
- Colon cancer
This year, we were especially honored to spotlight a very young superhero: Stephan Almazan, a 10-year-old brain cancer survivor. Just two weeks before our 2025 brunch, Stephan rang the end-of-treatment bell at Brenner Hospital—signaling the end of a long and courageous battle.
When I met him, Stephan was surrounded by loving family, supportive friends, and his devoted medical team. His smile lit up the hallway as the sound of that bell echoed through the pediatric oncology unit. That bell represents more than the end of treatment—it symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and triumph against the odds.
We were overjoyed to welcome Stephan and surprise him with a special birthday celebration, complete with some of his favorite toys. He reminded us all what true strength looks like. In a world full of challenges, this brave 10-year-old reminded everyone that even in the darkest moments, there is light—and sometimes, that light comes with the ringing of a bell.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible love, dedication, and support of so many. From our tireless volunteers to our generous sponsors, vendors, and in-kind donors—thank you for helping create a day full of meaning, joy, and hope. Lives were celebrated and spirits were lifted on April 26, 2025.
Special thanks to our Vendors, Sponsors, and In-Kind Donors:
- Jodie and Jodie Brim Creative – Photography
- Catch This Tee – Catering
- Green Bee Floral Designs
- JKWoodwork – Custom awards
- 24K Rentals – Special seating (Gold chairs)
- Bee Kind Coffee – Lavender lemonade that added the perfect sweet touch
- Baking Inc – Cupcakes
- Design Soiree by Santana – Event branding and balloon design
- DJ Jason Tuttle
- Alphalitnc – Marquee letters
Special Guests:
- Pastor Jayson Sloan – Delivered a powerful message: “God’s Plan for My Life” (Jeremiah 29:11)
- Mr. Eric Lynch (husband and caregiver) and Mrs. Djarkata Lynch, a 9-time survivor
With heartfelt gratitude to the 2025 iChoose Joy Team:
Catrina Tuttle, Lisa Howard, Martha Walls, Nicole Berry, Santana Mobley, Christina Segar, Beverly Penn, Laresey Waden, Liset Johnson, and Isaac Redfearn—thank you for creating such a warm, loving, and joyful atmosphere for our 25 honorees and their guests.
My heart is full and overflowing from the love and joy that radiated before, during, and after the event.
Keep choosing joy.
