ROCKINGHAM – The people of Richmond County and surrounding areas now have a new place to shop, as well as provide financial support towards a cure for cancer, which has probably impacted someone in your life, or even your own. On Monday, June 4, the Richmond County Cancer Care Treasure Shop was officially welcomed as a new business by the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
Rodney Gandy is the owner of the shop, which is conveniently located at 704 A East Broad Avenue in Rockingham. It will be operating as a nonprofit, with all of the proceeds going towards Relay for Life in Richmond County. The American Cancer Society uses the funds for cancer research, services for those diagnosed with cancer, as well as educating the public about early detection.
A wall full of the colorful purple t-shirts at the front of the store serves as a mindful display, and are also available for purchase. It states that the Cancer Care’s mission is to support the local community, especially those affected with cancer.
As you enter the shop, you see a wide variety of well-displayed clothing for infants, young children, men, and ladies. Colorful scarves, purses and wallets, shoes, boots, and belts are also for sale at nominal prices. A nice area in the back of the store is set up with a television, videos and toys to keep younger children occupied (perhaps) while their parents shop for bargains!
The left side of the shop features a multitude of house wares, glassware, hanging pictures, wall decorations, pillows and bedspreads, everyday dishes as well as sets of fine china. You can find different pieces of furniture – ranging from glass tables and lamps – to recliners and even some antiques.
Mr. Gandy shared that this cause is extremely personal to him because his mother, Diane McNeill, has survived three bouts with cancer. She was present, along with other family members, friends, and members of the community, on Monday for the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Seth Allen and Taylor Player of the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce greeted shoppers as they arrived on Monday morning prior to the ceremony. Emily Tucker, President of the Chamber, welcomed the people who were present and introduced Neil Robinette, the Vice Chairman. He welcomed Rodney Gandy as a new business owner to the county, stating that the proceeds certainly are going to a worthy cause and congratulating him in this endeavor.
Thad Ussery, representing the Richmond County Board of Commissioners, said, “It is a pleasure to be here. This new store in our community will be providing a valuable service for a good cause. I am pleased to see that the proceeds will be going towards Relay for Life. Cancer is no longer a death sentence, thanks to money going towards research for a cure.” Rockingham City Mayor Steve Morris also congratulated Mr. Gandy on the opening of the new business, and gave his wishes for the store to be prosperous and successful.
Mr. Gandy thanked those in attendance and all those who had provided support for him and his family with their decision in setting up and opening the business. He shared that he didn’t realize that there are so many cancers that affect our lives, and he posted pictures in the shop with the different types of cancer and the ribbon colors that they represent, to better inform the public. He also thanked Fatz of Rockingham for catering the event, which included their well-known chicken wings, tasty dips, and sweet tea. Chaplain Chris Thornton of Richmond County Hospice provided the blessing.
The official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony followed in front of the Treasure Shop with Rodney Gandy cutting the ribbon accompanied by his mother Diane McNeill, County Commissioner Thad Ussery, Rockingham Mayor Steve Morris, and other well-wishers.
If you have any items that you would like to donate towards a very worthy cause, please consider Richmond County Cancer Care Treasure Shop at 704 A East Broad Avenue in Rockingham.
Their phone number is (910) 817-9342, their hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and they also have a Facebook page.
