Relay for Life raises over fifty-three thousand dollars

In October we kicked off our Relay, signing up teams and began our fundraising to eliminate cancer. December was the Christmas parade, we enjoyed getting together and working on our float. We celebrated eliminating cancer and having more birthdays. In March, Jenni Reynolds began preparing for the second annual Relay for Life pageant, which she, as well as many helpers, did a fabulous job. Look for more information in 2013. At the end of March we had our annual survivor banquet at Ten Mile Church – lots of entertainment, food, and fun were enjoyed by all. Thanks to all the survivors who were in attendance, if you were not there we missed you and hope to see you at the 2013 banquet. Thanks to any and everyone who played any part in helping it to be so successful. We rounded out March with or first Relay for Life parade that was headed up by Mary Nell Alderman and First African Baptist Church, who chose Gail Taylor as grand marshal. There were many units in the parade and all had lots of fun. We even had a unit who painted their tractor and trailer pink in memory of their family member. Thanks First African Baptist Church and your special church member, Mary Nell Alderman for all her hard work. It was an honor for me to be chosen grand marshal, so thank you!

In the mean time we were still signing up teams and getting ready for May 4, 2012, it looked like it was going to be the biggest and best ever, we were really excited - money was being turned in, there were 33 teams that signed up and it was so looking like we were going to meet our goal of $45000.00. On May 4 it was finally time for the Relay for Life! The tents were up. Decorations were done for this year’s theme “Grooving into the 70’s for a Cure”. Survivors were ready for the first lap, which is dedicated to them. Everyone joined in socializing, cooking food, it was entertaining and a wonderful night out for family and friends. Then at 9:00 p.m. we honored our loved ones and remembered those who fought the battle and lost in a quiet somber ceremony, the candles in the bags were lit that went around the track and more. Hand held candles were given out as well. It was an awesome sight and heart felt as well. Thanks to everyone who honored or remembered their loved one by purchasing a bag. Then at 11:45 we were minutes away from finding out if we had met our goal or not. Soon Monty Milikin (the MC) announced the total for the night and it was (drum roll)… $50,400.75 amazing! We now have received up to $53,000.00 plus. Thank you team captains, co-captains and all the hard working teams who participated. Thanks to everyone who donated money, large or small, or did anything else to make our relay a very successful event. A very special shout to all the youth that participated. Thanks to everyone for making a difference in the lives of others, may God bless each and everyone, and please let’s continue to lift up our cancer patients and families and the families who lost their loved one to cancer or to any other type of illness. To the cancer patients stay strong! You’re not alone. We’re fighting the battle with you.

This year, 2012, was a busy year for us but we’re praying for the day we hear we have eliminated cancer and we don’t have to ask for donations. You can help put us out of business by getting regular check ups. Early detection saves lives, it might be yours. For more information about getting involved, please contact Gail Taylor or any committee member. Thanks for a GREAT 2012 RELAY! You are awesome! Hope to see you at the 2013 Relay Kick-off. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Gail Taylor,
Chairperson
and Committee