If smiles were currency, everyone at Stella Brook Salon last Friday could retire.

The fifth annual Styles Make Smiles took place last week, garnering the largest turnout in the history of the event. More than 30 cancer patients and survivors were treated that day to complimentary facials, hair styling, massages, nail care, and Mary Kay makeovers.

“I almost cancelled, because I’m going through this depression; then I thought, I’m going. I need this, I’m going,” said Sandra Partridge, participant and mother-in-law to Tara Partridge, a stylist at the salon. “As soon as I walked in the door, I could feel the love that was in this room.”

Besides offering a day of free pampering, the event, sponsored along with Lakeside Hospice and several other area businesses, also gave guests something else — a support system. Those who have survived or are battling cancer were provided an understanding environment amongst others going through the same situation.

“I feel like I’m in a safe place,” said Partridge, smiling warmly. “Women should feel this special everyday, or at least every year.”

Throughout the day the women shared stories of courage, pain and hope, with plenty of humor thrown in for good measure.

“One lady earlier, after getting a makeover, a man walked in and she started flirting with him. She introduced herself and said ‘I’m a new woman!’” laughed Stacey Newton, owner of Stella Brook Salon, along with childhood friend Amy Graham.

“She didn’t have hair, eyelashes or eyebrows when she came in, so she left with all of those things and a smile,” said Graham.

Based upon the overwhelming response from the community, this is an event that will continue for years to come.

“We’ve all shed tears today. We share the joy that (the participants) feel,” said Graham, “because when they’re happy, we’re ecstatic.”