Amy Carmichael talks about cancer, benefit concert on June 20

Selma resident Amy Carmichael, a longtime nonprofit worker known for helping families across Dallas County, Alabama, is now facing a renewed battle with cancer as friends and musicians rally to support her through a benefit event on June 20. Carmichael has spent more than a decade working with organizations such as the Dallas County Family Resource Center, Aletheia House and Cahaba Mental Health. She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 and completed treatment in 2021. After four years in remission, she learned in September 2025 that the cancer had returned. This time, the diagnosis was more severe. Carmichael said her cancer is triple negative and spread to both lungs, her scalp and her neck, automatically classifying it as stage four. As Carmichael continues treatment, friends have organized AmesFest, a daylong music event set for June 20 at Kenan’s Mill on Summerfield Road. The idea began with friend Josh Dumas, who then connected with musician Rick Carter, who has been working with the Carmichaels on the annual rib-off’s songwriter showcase. “Everybody just jumped in and wanted to help,” Carmichael said. The festival will run from 2 to 7 p.m. and feature a full lineup of musicians who know Carmichael personally. Entry is donation-based, and supporters will also be able to contribute by purchasing T shirts, posters, stickers and other items. Read more about it at BlackBeltNewsNetwork.com