A Pell City salon is doing what it can to treat  breast cancer patients and survivors to a day of rest and relaxation. Primp and Paint has been hosting Styles and Smiles for the past four years. The annual event has now become bi-annual because of the overwhelming response from the community.

Women who are currently battling breast cancer or those who have faced it in the past are invited to the salon for a complimentary makeover. This includes hair, nails and makeup.

“We just want to give back to them in any way we can,” Primp and Paint owner Amy Graham said. “This is our way to help ease their pain.”

Graham recognized that breast cancer is something that is exhausting, both physically and mentally for those fighting it. She hosts the event as a way to give those women a break from everyday life. The atmosphere is intended to make those in attendance feel as if they are having a girls day with old friends.

Lakeside Hospice, an event sponsor is a main contributor to the organization of the event. Teresa Carden, Lakeside Hospice Missions Coordinator, is very close to the cause, her mother being a two-time breast cancer survivor.

“Having events like this one, that’s what it’s all about,” Carden said. “We want these ladies to feel pampered and taken care of. For women, when you look good, you feel good.”

In addition to receiving makeovers, the salon’s special event provides guests with something else. A support system.

“These women have all faced the same enemy,” Graham said. “Being together here provides them with a network of support from ladies who can offer encouragement and a shoulder to lean on.”

People in the community have taken notice of the event and have helped out in what ways they can. A Mary Kay consultant has participated at every event, giving guests full-face makeovers.

“This is such a rewarding event to be a part of,” Karen Sullivan said. “Sometimes I think we get more satisfaction from it than they do.”

The goal of the event is to bring women together in a relaxed environment to be pampered, while providing them the opportunity to meet other women who share their journey. Primp and Paint plans to continue hosting this event for years to come.

“We love being able to do this,” Graham said. “We can’t fix cancer, but we can fix hair.”