Volume 44, Issue 14. Today is
Relay supports cancer survivors
With thousands of dollars raised and hundreds of participants, Mesa’s Relay for Life had a great turnout, which ran from April 14 to 15 at Dobson High School.
During the event, teams of people walk or run laps, keeping at least one team member on the track at all times, remembering those who they have lost due to cancer and celebrating those who survived.
The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, kicked off with an opening ceremony, followed by a survivor’s lap, while everyone else gathered around the track to cheer on and celebrate those who fought and survived their battle.
The laps began at approximately 2 p.m. on April 14 and lasted until approximately 6 a.m. on April 15.
The funfilled event had different themed laps, such as The All American Hour, The Magic of Relay, Take Me Out to the Ballgame, and The Carnival Hour.
When a team member was not walking or running around the track, there was plenty of entertainment, including movies, food, desserts, and awards.
Mary Jo Delatorre said, “I walk for my father, who died last year. He had cancer for seven years; he went through a lot. In my heart, he is still a survivor.”
Other participants walk because they are a survivor, to honor survivors, to remember those they lost, or even just for fun.
Joannie Gibson, a breast cancer survivor and second-time Relay for Life walker, said, “This is an amazing event. Not only do I walk to support fellow survivors, I support families because I know what they are going through.”
“I have been cancer-free for almost three years now and, wow, does it feel good.,” said Gibson.I want to inspire others.”
Relay for Life is one of The American Cancer Society’s largest annual fundraisers.
There were 22 Relay for Life events around the Valley to help raise money for cancer research and help those touched by cancer in their lives.