“Friends from Hamilton, Wayne, and White Counties will come together to remember those touched by cancer and raise funds to help eliminate this disease which affects too many of our families and friends,” stated Janice Crow, Relay For Life Event Chair.
Relay For Life will take place on Saturday, June 13, from 4-8 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Carlton Center in McLeansboro. The event includes entertainment, food, raffles, activities and face painting for kids. “Relay is open to the public. We invite everyone to enjoy a relaxing evening and walk a lap in honor of loved ones affected by cancer,” added Diane Kunkel, Publicity Chair.
Cancer survivors and caregivers may begin registering at the Survivor Table at 4 p.m. The luminary, raffle, and food booths will also open at 4 p.m. and remain open throughout the evening.
The Relay Event officially begins at 5 p.m. with the Opening Ceremony as survivors take the honorary first lap, cheered on by those in attendance. “It doesn’t matter if you were diagnosed 10 days ago or 10 years ago, we honor your strength and courage with every step taken,” added Janice Crow. The Kathy Smith Volunteer of the Year Award will also be presented.
During the Luminaria Ceremony, activities cease, the room is darkened, and bags are lit in remembrance of those touched by cancer. “It is an emotional ceremony as each glowing candle represents someone special,” said Cindy Anselment, Luminaria Chair.
Event schedule overview:
4 p.m. Survivor Registration; Luminary, Raffle, Food Tents Open
5 p.m. Opening Ceremony
5:30-8 p.m. Music, Social Hour, Kids Activities
6:30 p.m. Team Activity, Entertainment
8 p.m. Luminaria Ceremony