If you've never been to a Relay for Life event, I encourage you to find one in your area. Start a team, join a team, or go for the fun and activities that will be there. It is a touching event with tears of rememberance to those friends and family members we have lost to cancer, it is a time of joy for those of us who have survived the disease and it is a time of fundraising to find a cure.
Relay For Life is a unique event that allows participants from all walks of life to join together to fight cancer. Relay For Life reminds people that progress has been made in the fight against cancer and that everyone who participates is making a difference. Participating cancer survivors are given special sashes to wear as they lead a special Victory Lap around the track in honor of their triumph over cancer. The Victory Lap is one of the most moving experiences of my life. Each year I'm overwhelmed by the crowds of people who surround the track cheering on survivors like myself. It reminds me that I'm not alone in my fight against cancer. As participants make new friends and spend time with old ones, the relay celebration and camp-out begins. Team members come together to celebrate, barbecue, play games and walk the track for a worthy cause.
Highlighting the evening is the Luminaria Ceremony, held after dark to honor cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost the battle against cancer. Hundreds of luminaria (bags filled with sand and a lit candle) line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the importance of their contributions.
Relay for Life is a fun, family-oriented event. All proceeds raised during Relay for Life will help the American Cancer Society provide educational and patient services, as well as help fund cancer research.
Last year, I walked a total of 14 1/2 miles from 6:00 PM on Friday through Saturday morning at 10:00 AM. This year my goal is 16 miles. I raised almost $500.00 for our team and we received a Platitum award. We were only $300.00 away from receiving the Gold award, which we had won the previous 4 years.
This year my goal is $750.00 and I am asking for your help. Please send whatever you feel you are able to afford in the form of a check made out to the American Cancer Society. This ensures that the American Cancer Society will send you a receipt that can be used for a charitable donation on next year's taxes. In the meantime, the money will be put to good use for research projects for a cancer cure.
Checks should be mailed to:
Connie Mattingly
278 S Delaware
Mt. Gilead, Oh 43338
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