By Therese Righter
O’NEALS — We have all been touched by the horrible disease — cancer. It is unrelenting, and nobody wants to hear the word uttered by their doctor. Fortunately, there is a way that you can help fight this ugly disease — join the 2020 Relay for Life: Sierra Mountain Communities for a Cure event, and help us kick cancer!
Last year, the Relay for Life event in the mountain area took on a new look, a new location, and a new name, “Sierra Mountain Communities for a Cure.” It was a huge success raising over $44,000 for the American Cancer Society. Since 1999, this same mountain community has raised an impressive one million dollars in the fight against cancer.
This year’s event takes place on Friday, March 27 at 5 p.m. through Saturday, March 28 at 2 p.m., and will be held once again at Minarets High School.
Many activities are planned including: a dinner on Friday night, campsite competition, Luminaria Ceremony, Torch of Hope Lap, live music, activities, booths, games, pancake breakfast, Opening Ceremonies, Survivor Lap, Survivor & Caregiver Breakfast, more food, DJ, haircuts, massages, games, and a Kids Zone (more on that later).
Many questions have been asked about the event, so here are a few FAQs:
Do I have to walk around the track the whole time?
No. In fact, there are many things to do and see at each “campsite”/booth, including cancer education, games, drawings, etc.
Am I required to stay overnight?
No. Many participants choose to return home to sleep, and leave those fun-loving high school kids to stay up all night (remember when?), or come for either just the evening on Friday, or the day on Saturday.
How do cancer survivors and their caregivers register for the Survivor Lap and Breakfast?
Please contact either Amanda Martin (amandamartin24@gmail.com) or Linda Maddox (madmom@netptc.net), and they will ensure you are registered.
Are there activities for younger children?
Yes! Many of the campsites/booths have games, coloring, and activities in which the children can participate, miniature horses, as well as a Kids Zone (in the planning stages).
If you would like more information, or have any questions, please contact Gabriela Araiza (Community Development Manager with the American Cancer Society) at gaby.araiza@cancer.org, or Therese Righter (Planning Committee Member) at trighter@mychawanakee.org.
