by Jamie Carter
Last Friday night cancer patients, survivors, their families, friends and care givers came out on a hot and muggy night for the 25th Annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life. The temperature was high but spirits were higher as teams and volunteers braved the heat and came together to walk all night, raising funds for the American Cancer Society. At the Relay for Life they walk all night because the search for a cure to cancer should never rest.
The festivities were emceed by Tim Stanberry whose wife Deana Stanberry opened the ceremonies with the singing of the National Anthem. Dupo Commerce Bank Manager Vicky Foster and East Carondelet Mayor Herb Simmons who Co-chaired the event both addressed the crowd as well as Dupo mayor Ron Dell. But perhaps the most touching moment was when Affordable Dental of Dupo dentist, Dr Ronald Gerstman, addressed the crowd. Dr. Gerstman is currently a cancer patient.
Another emotional highlight of the event included the first lap. Prior to the start of the first lap all cancer survivors and caregivers gathered at the starting line in front of the bleachers. Each survivor stated their name and how long they’ve been a survivor or how long they’ve been cancer free. As the relay began the survivors went in one direction and the caregivers in the opposite meeting on the other side of the field, where in a symbolic gesture, the caregivers then joined the survivors in completing the first lap. Survivors who were unable to walk drove or rode in golf carts.
This year’s theme at the Relay for Life was “The 80’s”. Teams dressed in 1980’s clothing, sported hair styles from the 80’s and one team brought 1980’s video game icon Pac-Man with them on the track. He was chasing a ghost, naturally. Obviously fun would also be the order of the evening.
As darkness fell on the event they prepared for the Luminaria Ceremony. Luminaria are bags that are purchased in honor of individuals who have passed away due to cancer or in honor of those who are still battling cancer. Some are purchased as memorials to others who have passed away from other causes. The names of those being honored are placed on the bags along with those who purchased the bag. The bags are filled with sand and a candle placed in the bottom. The bags are then placed around the track and as darkness falls the candles lit. Bags were also placed in the stands spelling out the word Hope. As the candles glowed in their bags, the names of each person honored on the bags were read aloud. Then with only the glow of the candles to lead them a lap was completed to honor them. It was a beautiful, solemn, touching moment.
When the event was completed the following morning, Archview Relay for Life had raised over $49,500.00. And according to event Co-chair Vicky Foster, another $1000.00 is on the way and if people still want to contribute they may do so until August 15th. After that all funds collected will go toward next year’s event. When asked how this year’s event compared to previous years Vicky said, “We did just about the same as last year, but in this economy I think that’s great! Especially when you consider that we had fewer teams participating this year. Three of our teams rose over $6000.00 each which places them in the Gold fundraising level. We also had two Silver teams and a Bronze team. Our people worked hard this year.” Vicky Foster also wished to thank all of the corporate sponsors but especially her staff at Commerce bank of Dupo. “They all volunteered in one capacity or another. Some walked on teams at the event, others worked at the event. Their extra effort and time allowed me to dedicate more time to the event.”
If you haven’t attended a Relay for Life event you should. It is a one of a kind event. Part fund raiser, part memorial service and all party. It must be experienced to be understood. Preparation for next year’s event has already begun as teams plan their fundraisers over the next eleven months. And they’re looking for more teams to participate. “We really need more teams for next year’s event.” said Vicky. “We’d especially like to have more teenagers and young adults involved.” If you would like to get involved with Archview Relay for Life or if you would like to make a contribution, you may contact Vicky Foster at Commerce Bank of Dupo at 618-286-6200.
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