History of Sarah Cannon
Sarah Cannon, creator of the beloved character Minnie Pearl, worked tirelessly to promote the importance of cancer education, screening and early detection.
For more than four decades, the irrepressible Minnie Pearl and the soft-spoken Sarah Ophelia Cannon lived “right next door to one another” beneath the flower-decked brim of Minnie’s trademark straw hat, sharing a warmth, wit and honesty from the same mind and heart.
During her tenure on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, she received numerous accolades from her fans and peers in the entertainment industry. Her dedicated efforts for the American Cancer Society, coupled with her personal bout with breast cancer, led her to receive the Society’s National Courage Award in 1987.
Today, her memory is honored by all those who receive care through the comprehensive cancer program at The Sarah Cannon Cancer Center. We are proud she chose to share her name - and her spirit - with all of us.
