Nov. 18, 2010

Meet Xavier, the ultimate lap dog! Being held is one of his favorite things.  This small 5 year-old terrier mix loves to sit in your lap and will roll over for belly rubs.  He is neutered, current on vaccinations, laid-back and super sweet!!!  And did we mention he walks well on leash and is housetrained.  What an awesome little dog! Xavier came to Almost Home Adoption Center after being picked up by animal control.  You have to wonder how such a cute little guy ended up on the streets. Did you know that November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month?  While Xavier isn't quite a senior, he is mature and has many of the attributes of a senior.  Seniors make excellent pets as they are often already housetrained, their personalities are more established, thus eliminating a lot of the guesswork that goes with a young animal, and there's much less chewing and other rambunctious puppy habits.  All of those benefits pale, however, to perhaps one of the main reasons mature pets are so terrific.  They tend to be more grateful for their homes.  They just want to be part of the family. So do you want to be a hero?  If so, consider adopting Xavier.  He'll be so thankful that you won't help but realize you've done something special.  Xavier has a really nice life ahead of him if only he can find a person to call his own.  If you're looking for a lap dog, please consider making Xavier your own.  You can adopt Xavier for only $75.00. (Pet ID - D10-403)

Meet Snowflake!  This sweet 8 year old kitty came to the shelter after her pet parent passed away.  Snowflake is a laid-back lady of a cat with very mellow and gentle personality.  Like many of us, Snowflake is fighting the battle of the bulge.  She currently weighs a bit over 20 pounds and is trying to lose weight.  But it isn't easy!  She's currently on a low calorie diet and will need to continue the diet in her new home.  Snowflake is friendly, spayed, litter box trained and current on vaccinations.  Come out to the adoption center to meet this feline - she likes to hang out in the front lobby and greet the visitors to the Almost Home Adoption Center!  You can adopt Snowflake today for just $75.00.  (Pet ID - C10-285)

Meet Yukon!  This stunning 10 year old male American Eskimo Dog is housetrained, neutered and current on vaccinations.  He and his best pal Jasmine were abandoned by their owner but fortunately this sweet duo is at Almost Home Adoption Center where they're looking for a 'new leash on life'.  American Eskimo Dogs are described as intelligent, alert and friendly.  Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks!  Did you know that November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month?  Seniors make excellent pets as they are often already housetrained, their personalities are more established, thus eliminating a lot of the guesswork that goes with a young animal, and there's much less chewing and other rambunctious puppy habits.  All of those benefits pale, however, to perhaps one of the main reasons mature pets are so terrific.  They tend to be more grateful for their homes.  They just want to be part of the family. So do you want to be a hero?  If so, consider adopting Yukon. He'll be so thankful that you won't help but realize you've done something special. You can adopt him for just $75.00. Or how about this bonded pair for $100.00 - Yukon and Jasmine will be so appreciative and you'll be glad you did it! (Pet ID # D10-441 & D10-442)

Meet Trixie!  Trixie is a gorgeous three-year-old Calico.  She and her best buddy Oreo came to the adoption center after their pet parent had to move due to an illness, and could no longer keep them.  It was a very hard thing for Trixie and Oreo's human mom to do, because she loved them very much.  She wanted them to find a home with the love and care she could no longer give them.  Trixie currently weighs about 10 pounds, is spayed, current on all her vaccinations and is litter box trained.  You can adopt Trixie today for $75.00, or adopt her and her buddy Oreo for $100.  (Pet ID - C10-287 and C10-288)

Xavier, Snowflake, Yukon, Jasmine, Trixie, Oreo, and many other wonderful dogs and cats are available for adoption at New Leash on Life’s Almost Home Adoption Center located at 507 West Baddour Parkway in Lebanon.  The Almost Home Adoption Center is open for adoptions Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, noon until 5:00 p.m.  We are closed on Wednesday.  Please also visit the Luv-A-Pet Center at the Mt. Juliet Petsmart store during regular store hours to meet more of our fabulous felines available for adoption.  We also have dogs available for adoption every Sunday from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m. at the Petsmart in Mt. Juliet at Providence Marketplace.  For more information, call 444-1144 or visit www.newleashonline.org.

Do you have 2 hours to volunteer one day a week between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. or between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m.?  Then we need you!  New Leash on Life CAT Team volunteers care for the wonderful cats and kittens available for adoption in the Mt. Juliet (Providence) PetSmart Luv-a-Pet Center.  Just a couple of hours a week can mean so much!  Weekday and Weekend times are available.  For more information, contact CAT Team Coordinator, Debbie Moore, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

New Leash on Life offers 24PetWatch microchips, which includes free registration into the 24PetWatch pet recovery service.  For more information visit www.24petwatch.com or call 1-866-597-2424.  All pets also come with 30 days of pre-paid pet health insurance.  For more information please visit www.sheltercare.com or call 1-866-375-PETS.

On Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011, some of the country's best songwriters will join country music superstar Gretchen Wilson for the Third Annual "MCA's Music at the Mill." Tickets for the event are on sale now - great for Christmas gifts! Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available by calling 615-444-2678 or online sales are available at http://www.mcclainchristian.org/mca-store/online-tickets.

The star-studded line-up is hosted by Wilson County's own Gretchen Wilson ("I Got Your Country Right Here," "Work Hard, Play Harder," "All Jacked Up," "Here for the Party," and "Redneck Woman"). Performers include some of music's most accomplished and wide-ranging talents.

The venue features two seating opportunities: Section A "VIP" - $125 - includes mix & mingle with artist, dinner, gift bag, preferred parking and upfront seating. Section B - $50 - is table seating with dinner plates available. The event will be held at The Mill, located at 300 North Maple Street in Lebanon, and doors open at 6:30 p.m.

"MCA is so fortunate to have talented and fabulous artists join in our MCA's Music at the Mill event line-up," stated Donna Shaffer, Director of Schools for McClain Christian Academy. "We thank these legendary artists who are graciously giving their time to make the school's event a success. We are grateful for their involvement and look forward to an unforgettable evening."

Performances include yesterday's hits and tomorrow's #1 smashes - straight from the tunesmiths who crafted them. The one consistent thread of the evening is its definitely entertaining, always inspiring, funny, and crosses all stylistic borders from many multi-platinum international hits. Tickets are limited, so purchase early, and then get ready for an intimate evening and an up-close and personal experience that is always a crowd pleaser.

Oct. 28, 2010

Spongy-head alert! Oh, just look at that furry, wrinkled face. Don't you just want to rub it? Diamond is a five-year-old, full-blooded Chinese Shar-Pei who is looking for a special family to adopt her. You see, she was subjected to life at a local puppy mill. Fortunately, the Sheriff's Department intervened, and the courts awarded Diamond, as well as several other Shar-Peis, to New Leash On Life. She's safe now, but she's hoping there's somebody who will take her in and show her the time and patience she deserves to live a happy life filled with love and attention. Diamond is spayed, current on vaccinations, house trained and gets along well with other dogs. The Shar-Pei is typically very loyal, intelligent, playful, active and brave. They bond with their family but are usually not unfriendly toward strangers. So, if you'd like a faithful companion who is easy-going, calm, independent and devoted, call about Diamond today. Better yet, stop by the pet adoption center soon and meet her in person. You won't be sorry. (Pet ID# D10-285)

"Can I snuggle up with you?" When she's sleepy, Ginger likes to snuggle against you. And when she's awake, this curious little girl enjoys exploring the world around her. She'll bravely check out the house, room by room, to see what kind of adventures are waiting for her. Born in March 2010, Ginger was picked up by animal control as a baby along with her mother and her two brothers. She was thin and scared of everything, but after living in a foster home, she's now a healthy, confident, social kitten who gets along fine with her siblings. She even likes the big dog that lives in her foster home! Ginger longs for a home with someone who wants to snuggle with her after a hard day of play. What do you say? one more thing you should know: this ginger-colored beauty won a pink ribbon in the kitten division of the Cat Show at the 2010 Wilson County Fair. Yea, Ginger! To find out more about Ginger, contact her foster mom at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . (Pet ID# C10-258)

Say hello to Asia! This adorable girl is everything you want from a dog: she's spunky and silly, and oh so sweet! If you love playtime, walks and kisses, Asia has you covered. She is an active three-year-old Labrador Retriever mix who was found by a Watertown police officer. When her owners couldn't be located, she came to New Leash On Life for a second chance. Young and healthy, Asia is in great shape, and she'd love to take you on a walk! (Or, uh, have you take her on one, if that's how you prefer to see it.) With all her energy, the more time you can spend romping around with her, the better! And she'd probably be great at learning new skills in the Good Dog training that is available with her adoption. She'd enjoy the attention, too! Don't miss out on your new best friend; come introduce yourself to Asia at our adoption center today! You can also call us at (615) 444-1144 to find out more about her. One look at those soulful, expressive eyes, and you'll be completely in love. (Pet ID# D10-369)

Freddie would love to whisper sweet nothings in your ear! This little charmer likes to climb on your shoulder and purr as loudly as he can. Maybe he's telling you he thinks you're wonderful, and he wants to go home with you. Born in March 2010, Freddie was picked up by animal control as a baby along with his mother and two siblings. He was thin and scared, but after living in a foster home, this affectionate boy is now a healthy, confident, social kitten who gets along fine with his littermates and even tolerates dogs. Freddie's affectionate personality won't stay a secret for long, so if you're looking for a sweet kitten who will keep you amused with his antics, please ask about him today. You can reach his foster mom at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call (615) 973-0157. Freddie won a white ribbon in the kitten division of the Cat Show at the 2010 Wilson County Fair. Way to go Freddie, you handsome little devil! (Pet ID# C10-92)

Diamond, Asia and many other wonderful dogs and cats are available for adoption at New Leash On Life's Almost Home Adoption Center, located at 507 West Baddour Parkway in Lebanon. You can learn more about Ginger and Freddie by contacting their foster mother at the e-mail address and phone number listed above. The Almost Home Adoption Center is open for adoptions Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. We are closed Wednesday. Please also visit the Luv-A-Pet Center at the Mt. Juliet Petsmart store during regular store hours to meet more of our fabulous felines available for adoption. We also have dogs available for adoption every Sunday from 1 until 4 p.m. at the Petsmart in Mt. Juliet at Providence Marketplace. For more information, please call 444-1144 or visit www.newleashonline.org.

Do you have two hours to volunteer one day a week between 7 and 9 a.m. or between 5 and 8 p.m.? Then we need you! New Leash On Life CAT Team volunteers care for the wonderful cats and kittens available for adoption in the Mt. Juliet (Providence) Petsmart Luv-A-Pet Center. Just a couple of hours a week can mean so much! Weekday and weekend times are available. For more information, please contact CAT Team Coordinator Debbie Moore at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

New Leash On Life offers 24PetWatch microchips, which include free registration into the 24PetWatch pet recovery service. For more information, visit www.24petwatch.com or call 1-866-597-2424. All pets also come with 30 days of pre-paid pet health insurance. For more information, please visit www.sheltercare.com or call 1-866-375-PETS.

October 18, 2010

"Can I be your pampered pup?" That's what Ellie Mae is asking. She's super-sweet and would love to soak up all the attention you can give her. This two-year-old Black and Tan Coonhound was picked up by animal control as a stray and was brought to the Adoption Center when her family didn't come to claim her. How sad! But Ellie Mae has a "new leash on life" now, and she's ready to move on. She's dreaming of having a real best friend for a long time to come, and we think it's high time she found one! She is spayed and current on vaccinations. She gets along just fine with other dogs, so bring your furry family out to meet her. When you take her for a walk, she loves to look up in trees! Could she be looking for a raccoon? Mostly, she's just looking for a chance to prove that she will be your best friend forever. You can adopt Ellie Mae for only $75, so won't you call soon or, better yet, bring the whole family to the Adoption Center to meet her. Wouldn't it be fun for all of you to go home together? (Pet ID# D10-339)

Meet Annie! Annie is a total sweetheart. Though she was found abandoned with her kittens, she meets her visitors with a soft meow and gently nudges your hand for a nice head scratch. She also has a cute little bobbed tail that seems to wag when she greets you! She is a little sad after being separated from her kittens, so she needs someone who will give her extra love and attention. She's been a wonderful mommy to her kittens, and now it's her turn to be loved and pampered forever. She will offer you a lifetime of unconditional love in exchange. Annie is approximately 12 month old, spayed and has had her rabies and FVRCP vaccines. Please contact Annie's foster mom via e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information on this beautiful bobtail girl. (Pet ID# C10-249)

They call me Candy because I am so sweet! I was living outdoors with several cats and other dogs, but was not properly cared for. I had so many fleas, it made my skin itch and I lost lots of hair! I'm safe now, plus I had a bath to kill the fleas! I'm hoping that a kind and patient person will adopt me and tell me that life will be good from now on. Won't you consider adopting me? I only weigh 23 pounds, am spayed, current on my vaccinations and house-trained (I will bark at you to let me out). I love other dogs, think cats are cool and I sit on command! If you give me a treat, I take it very gently. The staff at New Leash On Life think I have major personality - come meet me for yourself (you'll want to adopt me right away!). Speaking of adopting me, because of some kind donors who have paid for part of my adoption fee, you can take me home now for just $50! (Pet ID# D10-379)

Say hello to Sox! He is a five-and-a-half-month-old, short-haired kitty with a tabby and white coat. Sox and his three siblings - Bert, Ernie and Ashton - were found abandoned and a kind family took them in and taught them that people aren't so scary! The boys are now ready for their forever homes. They are all neutered, litter box trained and current on vaccinations. Adopt Sox for just $100, or two for $150 (the brothers would be so happy if you did!). Sox, along with his brother Ernie, are currently living with a foster family so they can be worked with to learn to trust. Brothers Ashton and Bert are available for adoption at the Almost Home Adoption Center Cat Room. Please contact the Almost Home Adoption Center for more information on Sox and his siblings. (Pet ID# C10-213)

Ellie Mae, Candy and many other wonderful dogs and cats are available for adoption at New Leash On Life's Almost Home Adoption Center, located at 507 West Baddour Parkway in Lebanon. You can learn more about Annie and Sox by contacting the Almost Home Adoption Center. The Almost Home Adoption Center is open for adoptions Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. We are closed Wednesday. Please also visit the Luv-A-Pet Center at the Mt. Juliet Petsmart store during regular store hours to meet more of our fabulous felines available for adoption. We also have dogs available for adoption every Sunday from 1 until 4 p.m. at the Petsmart in Mt. Juliet at Providence Marketplace. For more information, please call 444-1144 or visit www.newleashonline.org.

Do you have two hours to volunteer one day a week between 7 and 9 a.m. or between 5 and 8 p.m.? Then we need you! New Leash On Life CAT Team volunteers care for the wonderful cats and kittens available for adoption in the Mt. Juliet (Providence) Petsmart Luv-A-Pet Center. Just a couple of hours a week can mean so much! Weekday and weekend times are available. For more information, please contact CAT Team Coordinator Debbie Moore at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

New Leash On Life offers 24PetWatch microchips, which include free registration into the 24PetWatch pet recovery service. For more information, visit www.24petwatch.com or call 1-866-597-2424. All pets also come with 30 days of pre-paid pet health insurance. For more information, please visit www.sheltercare.com or call 1-866-375-PETS.

Sept. 13, 2010

How can you say no to a dog with ears like that? Tony is a handsome French Bulldog and Boston Terrier mix with beautiful brindle markings and, of course, the most adorable ears you've ever seen. He came to New Leash On Life from an animal control facility, hoping for another chance and a new leash on life! We don't know what Tony's story was before he was picked up by animal control, but we know he's a great little guy. He's young, born in the summer of 2009, and he only weighs 25 pounds. He walks nicely on a leash and is well-mannered and friendly. He's been neutered and is current on age-appropriate vaccinations. Tony is a sweet dog who deserves the chance to live the rest of his life in nice, cozy, happy conditions. Could you be the one to show him how good life can be when somebody loves you? Come get to know this little guy, and we think you'll agree that good things really do come in small packages! (Pet ID# D10-306)

He's big! He stalks like a panther! He's tough! If you don't watch out, Raven will ... OK, so he's not so tough. But he is big, and he does look like a panther. And there's one thing Raven never minds being woken up from his nap for - being petted! He loves anyone who'll give him what he wants - pets and more pets! When he tires of being stroked (if that EVER happens), he likes to stretch out for a nap. And, wow, this is one tall cat. Raven weighs almost 12 pounds, which sounds like a pretty big cat, but when you consider how thin he is, you get the feeling he has the potential to get a lot bigger. But, even with his large stature and his menacing look, he's really just a giant love-bug. When he showed up at the home where he's being fostered, it was obvious that Raven was very hungry. But when he was given the choice of eating or being petted, you could tell it was a hard decision for him. He loves attention. Raven is now safely inside, getting plenty to eat and is adjusting to his new circumstances very well. We're not sure how he ended up homeless, but it is obvious that Raven is a cat who wishes he lived in his own home again. And he promises to greet you at the door with a welcoming meow "hi" every time you come home. He'd be so happy if you asked about him! If you'd like to find out more about Raven, contact his foster mom at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . (Pet ID# C10-219)

Sarge may not be 100% chocolate Lab, but he is definitely 100% wiggly, happy puppy! Before coming to the Almost Home Adoption Center, he was living inside a car with his homeless owner. She had witnessed him get run over by a vehicle. She nursed him back to health and so enjoyed his company that she decided to keep the little boy. Sadly, she had to go into the hospital, and Sarge ended up at a local shelter. Sarge likes to play with other dogs and enjoys the company of people. He's especially fond of children, trying to lick the face of every kid he meets! Sarge is smart and so eager to please, but he is a puppy so he would be a great candidate for the Good Dog training that is available with his adoption. He's just hoping he'll finally find a place to call "home" forever. Sarge has been neutered and is current on age-appropriate vaccinations. Come meet this boy soon! He's a fun, friendly puppy, and he really is just looking for a place where he can belong. His adoption fee is just $125. (Pet ID# D10-302)

Tony, Sarge and many other wonderful dogs and cats are available for adoption at New Leash On Life's Almost Home Adoption Center, located at 507 West Baddour Parkway in Lebanon. You can learn more about Raven and arrange to meet him by contacting the Almost Home Adoption Center. The Almost Home Adoption Center is open for adoptions Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. We are closed on Wednesday. Please also visit the Luv-A-Pet Center at the Mt. Juliet PetSmart store during regular store hours to meet more of our fabulous felines available for adoption. We also have dogs available for adoption every Sunday from 1 until 4 p.m. at the PetSmart in Mt. Juliet at Providence Marketplace. For more information, call 615-444-1144 or visit www.newleashonline.org.

Do you have two hours to volunteer one day per week between 7 and 9 a.m. or between 5 and 8 p.m.? Then we need you! New Leash On Life CAT Team volunteers care for the wonderful cats and kittens available for adoption in the Mt. Juliet (Providence) PetSmart Luv-A-Pet Center. Just a couple of hours a week can mean so much! Weekday and weekend times are available. For more information, contact CAT Team Coordinator Debbie Moore at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

New Leash On Life offers 24PetWatch microchips, which include free registration into the 24PetWatch pet recovery service. For more information, visit www.24petwatch.com or call 1-866-597-2424. All pets also come with 30 days of pre-paid pet health insurance. For more information, please visit www.sheltercare.com or call 1-866-375-PETS.

Sherry's Run is easily recognized by its signature lime-green color and famous flip-flops. New for this year, supporters of Sherry's Run are encouraged to "Paint the Town Green" by purchasing lime-green bows for $10 each.

"Paint the Town Green" by attaching a Sherry's Run Bow to your door or mailbox at your home and/or office. You may order Sherry's Run Bows by contacting Debbie Lamberson at 483-3208, or you may e-mail her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Sept. 6 is the deadline for ordering bows. Bows will be available for pick up at the Sherry's Run event site (west lawn of Wilson Bank & Trust - 623 West Main Street, Lebanon) on Friday, Sept. 3 from 6 a.m. until 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.; Thursday, Sept. 9 from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m.; and on Friday, Sept. 10 from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m.

In addition, supporters are encouraged to convert up-lights, spotlights and flood lights on homes and businesses to the Sherry's Run lime-green color by safely installing lime-green laminate transparency material in light fixtures beginning Sept. 3 and leave displayed until after the Run is completed. Lime-green laminate will be available at bow pick-up times as well, or you are encouraged to install lime-green bulbs.

The seventh annual Sherry's Run is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010 at 8 a.m. in Lebanon, beside the main office of Wilson Bank & Trust, located at 623 West Main Street. Mark your calendar and make a commitment to join us.

The mission of Sherry's Run is to benefit those affected by cancer, with an emphasis on colon cancer. Sherry's Run will help any family affected by any kind of cancer that lives, works, goes to church or seeks treatment in Wilson County or our surrounding communities that has a true need. Sherry's Run is a 501 (c)(3) organization. It was started in memory of Sharon "Sherry" Patterson Whitaker, who died at the age of 44 from colon cancer. Donations are tax-deductible and can be made online at sherrysrun.org. For more information on Sherry's Run, please call 615-975-1081 or 615-400-2032.

PICTURED, ABOVE: Over 1,000 Sherry's Run Bows were tied by volunteers in an effort to turn our town lime-green and enhance promotional efforts of the 2010 Run, scheduled for Sept. 11. A special thanks to Debbie Lamberson and her committee for introducing this fun, new promotion and fundraiser.

The 2010 Sherry's Run is dedicated to the memory of Robert Harris and Karen Swack. Both lost their lives to cancer; yet, their memory continues to inspire others to try to make a difference.

Robert Harris

Robert Harris, a loyal supporter of Sherry's Run and other community service organizations, died of colorectal cancer on Sept. 9, 2009, at the age of 57.

His obituary stated that he was a Christian, a cabinet maker, a kitchen designer and an avid University of Tennessee fan - but he was so much more! His wife Margie described him as the "epitome of patience and understanding." She said everyone loved him because he was kind, loving and had a positive attitude. He was reported to have been an enthusiastic storyteller, particularly when recounting his fishing adventures. Some of his stories kept growing ... along with the size of the fish he caught. Margie said he was known for his long stories and long prayers. The word "strong" kept coming up in descriptions of his character, and he wielded every bit of that strength in his fight to live and to have a positive impact on others.

Robert's battle with cancer began rather innocently when he went to his family physician with a sore throat. His wife, a nurse, suggested that he schedule an "overdue" routine colonoscopy while at the doctor's office. Although Robert had no symptoms, the test was positive for cancer. His initial surgery lasted almost eight hours; later the same week, when his surgeon received the complete pathology report, he had another five-hour surgery.

From the moment of his diagnosis, Robert had a new focus in his life - to encourage everyone he came in contact with to have a colonoscopy. After making a family history connection with his grandmother's colon cancer, he made certain that his brothers and sisters were all tested. Margie advises that "it behooves everyone to look into their own family history." If at all possible, Robert wanted to spare another person from waiting too long to have a colonoscopy and having to go through what he was experiencing. If his message was met with resistance, his son Scott said his dad would very simply say, "Why not?". He used the analogy of "If you don't change the oil in your car, you're going to have problems later on. Your body needs maintenance and testing too, so why not?"

Scott said his father showed amazing strength throughout his illness. He endured the pain with his quiet demeanor. He didn't get to enjoy a long life with Margie and his children or get to take his grandchildren fishing, but his family takes great comfort in the love he gave them, the example he set with his quiet strength of character, gentleness and compassion for others. His family feels assured that his plea for everyone to get a colonoscopy has already saved lives.

Robert died three days before the 2009 Sherry's Run event. The family requested memorial donations be made to Sherry's Run, and as a testament to his convictions, the Harris family (pictured) participated in the Sherry's Run event the morning of Robert's funeral. There was never a question of whether they would attend. It was their way of honoring Robert and his mission.

Robert was a charter member of the Shamrock Society, which sponsors the annual Low Country Boil to raise money for the Tennessee Breast Cancer Society and Sherry's Run. As a result of the Shamrock Society's fundraiser, the Low Country Boil is a financial sponsor at the Diamond Level for the 2010 Sherry's Run. Robert's life continues to enrich ours.

Margie misses Robert's strength, the strength she depended on so much. She knows that it came from God, and she now faces each day with prayer and the wisdom that "nothing in this life is worth getting overly concerned about; we had better be preparing for the next life and get busy doing the things God wants us to do."

Karen Swack

Karen Swack, a precious member of our community, died of colon cancer on August 10, 2009 - only a month before the 2009 Sherry's Run event.

Karen's daughter lovingly described her mother as a Christian with amazing strength. Her life was full of love, family and giving. As a part of God's marvelous plan, she married very young - she was 14 and her husband, Jerry, was 17 - and in her short life she and Jerry raised two lovely daughters, Stacey and Stephanie, to adulthood and had three grandchildren. She felt truly blessed in her 37-year marriage.

Only months after celebrating her 50th birthday, she became increasingly short of breath. Her doctor ordered a CT scan of her chest and lungs. The test incidentally showed a large mass on her liver. Karen had no symptoms of colon cancer, no family history and had never had a colonoscopy. She had gone to work that morning as a physical therapy assistant at Willowbrook Home Health as she had done every day for years but went to sleep that night in the hospital having been diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer that had metastasized to her liver.

This is when Karen's "amazing strength" and her true Christian faith began to manifest itself. She never questioned "why me" or became angry with God. She fought the cancer with everything available to her and continued living her life with grace and dignity. A member of Immanuel Baptist Church for 30 years, she continued her faithful attendance as much as possible - sometimes with her "fanny pack" delivering chemo through the service and other days when it took amazing strength just to get out of bed.

When all the chemotherapy treatments and the trial drugs had stopped working, her oncologist wanted her to try one final trial medication. Her insurance company would not pay for it, and the cost would be $800 per treatment. The pharmacy told her that they had already contacted Sherry's Run on her behalf, and that Sherry's Run would help offset the costs. Her first response was not to take the money from Sherry's Run for fear that it would keep someone less financially able than her from getting their medication, but she was assured that this is what Sherry's Run is all about - taking away some of the financial burdens from our friends and neighbors in need within our community so they can focus solely on their health and family.

Karen was dedicated to her continued involvement in the Appalachian Mountain mission work with her church. Semi-annually, the church would take food and clothes to their adopted community of Sneedville in the seventh-poorest county in the United States. She made her last trip two months before she died - again showing that her concern for others took precedent over her own pain.

Her family said she never let the physical and emotional pain show but was always strong for them. This was her loving gift to them. She became very involved with Gilda's Club and would have family members taker her after she was too weak to drive herself. The amazing support groups and true friendships she formed with others battling cancer gave her much-needed encouragement. Continuing her connection with Gilda's Club, her daughter Stacey ran in the Country Music Marathon as a member of Gilda's Gang in Karen's honor.

Sherry's Run honors the life of Robert Harris and Karen Swack. We honor their strength and courage throughout their battle with cancer, along with their conviction to make a difference even in the face of adversity. The Harris and Swack families encourage everyone to become involved in the 2010 event. Our goal is to make sure Sherry's Run is available to all in our community who need the services we provide. Please join us for a day of fun and celebration while ensuring we reach that goal.

The seventh annual Sherry's Run is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010 at 8 a.m. in Lebanon, beside the main office of Wilson Bank & Trust, located at 623 West Main Street. Mark your calendar and make a commitment to join us.

The mission of Sherry's Run is to benefit those affected by cancer, with an emphasis on colon cancer. Sherry's Run will help any family affected by any kind of cancer that lives, works, goes to church or seeks treatment in Wilson County or our surrounding communities that has a true need. Sherry's Run is a 501 (c)(3) organization. It was started in memory of Sharon "Sherry" Patterson Whitaker, who died at the age of 44 from colon cancer. Donations are tax-deductible and can be made online. For more information on Sherry's Run, please call 615-975-1081 or 615-400-2032 or visit online.

Three Forks Marketplace presents the Second Annual Watertown Art Crawl on Saturday, August 28 from 6 until 9 p.m. Event organizers are promising a fun, eclectic event while raising funds for a very worthy cause - New Leash On Life, a local not-for-profit animal welfare organization. The event is also sponsored by Nashville Lifestyles magazine, Royce Belcher, CPA and Holiday Auto Mart, Inc.

Event attendees will enjoy live music, food and drinks while strolling the historic and charming public square of Watertown. The Art Crawl will offer a vast assortment of art, ranging from paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, woodwork, quilts and glass, just to name a few. Art demonstrations will also be performed throughout the event, and the evening will be capped off with a special live auction at 8 p.m. with Michael Walker of United Country Realty and Auction presenting several unique pieces to the highest bidders. The 2009 inaugural event drew nearly 500 attendees. Event organizers hope to draw even more attendees this year and raise funds for homeless animals in Middle Tennessee.

Participating galleries and shops displaying art will include: LuLu's Coffee House, Lew's Creation Station, Kake Haus Pastry Shop and Thornton Metal Studio. Food and wine will also be provided by Kake Haus Pastry Shop, LuLu's Coffee House and Mad House Wine Cellars.

Event tickets are $20 in advance or $100 in advance for groups of six and $25 at the door. Admission includes wine, live music, art demonstrations, appetizers and access to the live and silent art auction. Tickets may be purchased online at www.newleashonline.org/artcrawl.

Paricipating artists include: A. St. Philip, Amy Potter, Ann Shapiro, Arthur Kirkby (pictured, above, Kirkby's 'Pinky'), Brittany LeAnn Smith, Christine Corwin, Christy Donoho, Cynthia Johnson, Dave Colella, David Riemens, Donna Delmas, Douglas Lambert, Elia Maria Stewart, Ginny Edwards, Jana Frensley, Jason Dodson, Jeanne Richardson, Joe Bostick, Joni Bishop, Julie Ellison Anderson, Kim McDaniel, LeAnn Blevins, Lisa Albertin, Lucas Antoniak, Maggie Moore, Maribeth Wright, Mary Wright, Michael C. Carpenter, Natalie Andrews, Nina Kuzina-Farr, Paige Easter, Pat Millius, Patricia Bennett, Patrick Jackson, Rachael Ferrill, Ray St. Philip III, Rose Henderson, Sally Ham Govan, Susan Thornton, Susan Demay, Tracy Lynn, Victoria Boone, William Hunter, Lisa Cantrell-Wood, Terissa L. Cantrell and Lew Wallace.

Following a sequence of tragic and life-altering experiences over the past few years, Dixon Springs' John Riddle knows what it is to suffer. Physically, emotionally, financially, his worries have run the gamut. And, not one to draw attention to himself, he's all too familiar with suffering in silence.

Four years ago, John lost a four-year-old son, John Wesley Riddle, in a car accident. Around the same time, the development of some seemingly minor physical ailments went largely ignored by the single father as he shouldered the heavy burden of loss along with his older son, Zachary. Even when John's persistent indigestion was followed by kidney stones, and then colon pain and constipation, dealing with those maladies still seemed secondary to making a living and dealing with the other things in his life.

Finally, in mid-January of this year, he came home from work in pain and with a temperature of more than 100 degrees. The next day when he could no longer stand the pain, he visited an emergency room and was eventually referred to Tennessee Oncology. A biopsy on January 21 revealed the worst: cancer of the colon, with additional spots on his liver and lungs.

On top of the prospect of battling cancer, John was also facing other immediate obstacles. Being unable to go back to work left him with few means to support himself and his son. He also had no insurance. It all added up to more suffering than he might have been able to handle alone.

As he began treatment, John's mother, Christie True, began staying with him and Zachary as often as she could and helped them out around the house. More help would come when John's sister, Tandy Reid, reached out to Sherry's Run online. After visiting with John and his family, Sherry's Run representatives would see to it that John received help with day-to-day expenses like house payments, an electric bill, groceries and gas.

While John knows the future is uncertain, and the long road ahead will no doubt involve more troubles, he's grateful for all the help that has allowed him to continue providing a life for Zachary and managing his household. While he would have been willing to take on cancer with help only from the medical professionals who administer his treatments, the assistance in other areas has helped him press on while living life as close to normally as possible.

And that makes him glad that, for once, his suffering has not been done in silence.

Sherry's Run helps make the connection between the wonderful, giving members of our community who want to help and those who are hurting and need financial assistance while battling cancer. With donations from here in our community, Sherry's Run supporters are truly making a difference in the lives of our neighbors.

The 5K Run/Walk is the largest fundraiser of the year for Sherry's Run. It is held annually on the second Saturday in September (close to Sherry's birthday). The Sherry's Run Event site is at 623 West Main Street in Lebanon. The new certified course, TN10011MS, offers disposable chip timing (with start and finish mats) provided by Best Times of Memphis.

Mark your calendar and make a commitment to become involved this year. Registration forms are available online or by calling 615-975-1081 or 615-400-2032. All participants registered by August 31 will be guaranteed a Sherry's Run shirt. Prizes to the top overall male and female 5K run finishers and Overall Master (men's and women's winner) first, second and third place awards for each age group.

The mission of Sherry's Run is to benefit those affected by cancer, with an emphasis on colon cancer. Sherry's Run will help any family affected by any kind of cancer that lives, works, goes to church or seeks treatment in Wilson County or our surrounding communities that has a true need. Sherry's Run is a 501 (c)(3) organization. It was started in memory of Sharon "Sherry" Patterson Whitaker, who died at the age of 44 from colon cancer. Donations are tax-deductible and can be made online at sherrysrun.org.

Pictured above are John Riddle and his son, Zachary.

Organizers behind Sherry's Run, the annual 5K run/walk held to support those who have been impacted by cancer, have announced the 2010 run will be held in honor of Peggie Dill.

Peggie shared her story with Sherry's Run: In October 2009, Peggie Dill began having the vague symptom of abdominal pain that did not go away. Within one week of doctor's visits and tests, she received her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. She and her husband, Ken, met with several oncologists in the Middle Tennessee area. They then decided to get another medical opinion and flew to the Mayo Clinic, where their daughter Sarah works. The initial diagnosis was confirmed, but surgery was not an option due to the location and extent of the cancer. Since then, she has undergone chemotherapy every week or two, and there have been many ups and downs along the way.

Peggie is a wife and mother of three children. She recently retired from Coles Ferry Elementary School after many years of teaching. Most recently, she taught second grade there. She also enjoys reading and sewing, especially quilting.

Throughout this journey, the support and love from family, friends, church, employers and the community has lifted the Dill family in a tremendous way that cannot be described. Coles Ferry Elementary organized a walk for the students to promote awareness of the cancer and to demonstrate their love for Peggie. The phone calls, visits, flowers, food and daily cards and prayers continue to provide strength and encouragement.

Peggie agreed to be a part of the 2010 Sherry's Run for a number of reasons. Her husband has worked closely with Sherry's Run Executive Board Member Gary Whitaker at Wilson Bank & Trust for a number of years. Through this association, Peggie and her family got to know Gary and his wife, Sherry Patterson Whitaker, for whom the annual 5K is named. The Dill family was able to observe how Sherry, Gary and their family dealt with her disease with courage, caring and grace.

"We also know that even though we have been blessed with tremendous support from all the people listed above, not everyone that deals with cancer has this kind of support," the Dill family said in a statement issued on Aug. 2, 2010. "Sherry's Run is an organization at the local level that has done a tremendous job of providing this support."

Sherry's Run will honor Peggie Dill at the 2010 event in hopes of inspiring others who are facing cancer through her example and all that she stands for as a wife, mother, teacher, friend and family member.

The seventh annual Sherry's Run is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010 at 8 a.m. in Lebanon, beside the main office of Wilson Bank & Trust, located at 623 West Main Street.

The mission of Sherry's Run is to benefit those affected by cancer, with an emphasis on colon cancer. Sherry's Run will help any family affected by any kind of cancer that lives, works, goes to church or seeks treatment in Wilson County that has a true need. Sherry's Run is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible and can be made online. For more information, please call 615-975-1081 or 615-400-2032 or visit online.

PICTURED, ABOVE: The Dill Family