Celebrating Surivivors

Survivors and their caregivers celebrated Relay For Life by walking the first lap around the Metz Cherry Stadium track to kick off the annual event. [Click to enlarge]

Area residents joined forces over the weekend to celebrate their efforts against cancer and to make a giant step forward in the fight against the disease and pursuit for a cure.

These residents walked throughout the night during the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Eighteen teams and hundreds of people participated in the event to raise $95,005.39.

Money raised during Relay For Life helps fund the American Cancer Society's research, education, advocacy and service programs. The ACS is the largest nonprofit supporter of new cancer research and the largest voluntary health organization fighting cancer in the United States.

Kim Cannon, the event co-chairperson, said, "We appreciate all the support we received from each of the teams, as well as from our sponsors."

Autumn Burk, event co-chairperson, added, "We are especially grateful to the many volunteers and their families for all of their hard work to make this all happen."

Slicer Street Team was the top fundraising team at the event, raising $12,722. They also sold the most number of luminarias at 170.

The team that raised the second highest amount was Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center, raising $10,683.63, and Family Counseling Center was third with $6,614.65.

The top individual was Leann Stewart from Team Froggs, who raised $1,800.

Relay For Life is a family-oriented event where participants enjoy the camaraderie while also raising funds to support the activities of the American Cancer Society. Participants camp-out and, when they are not taking their turns walking or running, take part in fun activities and enjoy local entertainment.

Relay For Life also raises awareness about cancer by honoring cancer survivors.

The Relay began at 6 p.m. at Metz Cherry Stadium at Kennett, when cancer survivors and their caregivers kicked off the event by walking the first lap.

A luminaria ceremony at dark illuminated the entire track as participants lit luminaria candles in memory of those who've lost the battle to cancer and in support for those still fighting the disease.

At the closing ceremony, corporate sponsors received recognition for their contributions.

For more information about Relay For Life and how to become involved, call the American Cancer Society's 24-hour help line at (800) ACS-2345 or visit their Web site at www.cancer.org.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.