In 2022, Dr. Scott Giles’ life changed when he was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer following an at-home screening test. Despite the challenges of surgery, chemotherapy, and a progression to stage four cancer in 2023, he continued his work as an ER physician while using his own journey to raise awareness about the importance of early detection. He often shared, “God has blessed me with this cancer so I can tell people to get tested.”

His message reflected a mission deeply meaningful to Sherry’s Hope. The organization was founded in memory of Sherry Whitaker, who passed away from colon cancer at just 44 years old. Colon cancer education and screening remain central to Sherry’s Hope, and Dr. Giles worked tirelessly to encourage others to take proactive steps for their colon health. This included scheduling colonoscopies and completing at-home screening kits, which are available at Sherry’s Hope.

Even before his cancer diagnosis, Dr. Giles was a faithful supporter of Sherry’s Hope and could be found each year volunteering at the Sherry’s Run 5K Run/Walk. Last year, the 21st annual Sherry’s Run was held in his honor. As Dr. Giles made his way to the stage to accept his plaque, he gave a heartfelt speech to the community he loved, encouraging those present to stay proactive and get colon cancer screenings. Dr. Giles passed away in June of this year, but his legacy of service and hope continues!

Dr. Giles gave more than 20 years of service as medical support for Sherry’s Run. His quiet faithfulness, humble spirit, and dedication to helping others left a lasting mark on all who knew him, and those qualities will be deeply missed. Sherry’s Hope Executive Board Member and Sherry’s Run Race Director, Scott Jasper shared, “Dr. Giles or as I call him, “Doc”, was a tremendous supporter of Sherry’s Run by volunteering to oversee our first aid tents for the race each year, and his passion for medicine was met by providing the best experience for our run participants each year.  Even though he was going through treatments in 2024, he still made the time to support our organization and tell his story.  It was a pleasure to work alongside of him each year, and he will be missed as we carry on the fight.” This year, as we gather for the 22nd annual Sherry’s Run on September 13th, the event will be held in memory of Dr. Scott Giles, honoring not only his years of service, but also the hope, compassion, and encouragement he poured into this community.

Sherry’s Hope is a Christian, non-profit organization that works throughout the year to provide hope to families battling cancer in Wilson County and surrounding communities by offering emotional encouragement and financial assistance. In addition, Sherry’s Hope works to spread colon health awareness by distributing free colon cancer screening tests and providing colonoscopy assistance.

To learn more about the Sherry’s Run 5K event, visit www.sherrysrun.org, call 615-925- 2592, or email info@sherryshope.org. To learn more about Sherry’s Hope programs and services, visit www.sherryshope.org, call 615-925-9932, or email help@sherryshope.org. To donate to Sherry’s Hope, visit www.sherryshope.org, or mail donations to Sherry’s Hope, P.O. Box 8, Lebanon, TN 37088-0008.