By JULIE CARLE
BG Independent News
The Wood County Relay for Life touched heartstrings from the first lap that honored cancer survivors and their caregivers to the breathtaking luminary wall at the close of this year’s event.
Hundreds of people of all ages came together at the Wood County Fairgrounds Friday night to raise funds for the American Cancer Society (ACS) and prove the power of community.
They raised money, awareness, and most of all, spirits.
Nearly $70,000 was collected as of Friday night, with the final amount still being tabulated.
Team members highlighted all the different ways the money raised helps ACS support cancer patients, their families, and caregivers.
Funds raised through Relay for Life events contribute to research, advocacy, screenings, support groups, transportation and housing.
More than $470 million is devoted to research nationwide, Eaglettes team member Georgia Keith said. In Ohio, ACS has provided 41 grants totaling over $24 million to do cancer research at locations across the state.
“A lot of work is happening because of each of you. Thank you for what you are doing,” she said.
Hope Lodge, the free housing community for Cleveland Clinic cancer patients and their families, provides more than a roof over their heads, said Jeanne Wingate, team member of Amazing Ambulators.
“Hope Lodge is a nurturing community that helps patients access the care they need,” she said. The Cleveland location is one of 32 across the country. Each year, Hope Lodge communities house approximately 29,000 cancer patients and caregivers, saving $55 million in lodging costs.
Hotdogs, walking tacos, and Dilly bars brought plenty of smiles to the walkers, talkers and watchers throughout the six-hour fundraising event. Cancer survivors, those in treatment and their caregivers were treated to barbecue chicken dinner organized by Cindy Rossow and Sue Mannin of the Wonder Walkers.
The young and young-at-heart had plenty of fun activities during the event. A bouncy house, face painting, motorized animals and a giant inflatable chair, added to the smiles and the festive atmosphere.
Special contests sprinkled throughout the “Give Cancer the Boot” event included a decorated cowboy hat contest, best-decorated stick horse contest and race, and a scavenger hunt.
Anna Patnode’s poignant windchimes display, which she created for her capstone Girl Scouts Gold Award project, was filled with the windchimes that were named in honor and memory of those whose lives were impacted by cancer.
Looking over the 60-plus windchimes on the stand, The Eaglettes member Sue Bumpus said the team purchased windchimes in memory of more than 20 Eagles Club members.
“So many family members and friends have lost or are still struggling with the effects of cancer,” said her Eaglette colleague Georgia Keith. “Every year we learn more about American Cancer Society services provided to cancer patients and we have contributed to all of that. It makes us proud that we are doing what we can to honor our members.”
Loved ones’ names are in light for the special luminaria ceremony.
The lighting of the luminaria wall symbolized the reason the community had come together for the relay. “We relay to support the fighters, admire the survivors and honor the taken,” Amazing Ambulators’ member Wingate said.
“We relay to put an end to cancer so no one has to hear, ‘You have cancer,’” said Amanda Barndt, chair of the event and a member of the Hope Brigade.
