Relay for Life raises funds, awareness
HARTINGTON — The annual Cedar County Relay for Life event was once again a big hit.
The annual fundraiser in the fight against cancer raised approximately $30,000 this year, said co-chairman Lois Lammers, Hartington.
Twelve fund-raising teams took part this year.
“We were happy with the number of people that came out to celebrate and fight back,” Lammers said.
Approximately 36 survivors walked the survivor lap with breast cancer survivors Deb Leise, Sheri Mason, Sandy Bohlken and Deb Perk carrying the survivor banner.
Over 600 luminaries lit up the Hartington-Newcastle School gym during a special lighting display ceremony.
“The luminaria ceremony was very touching,” Lammers said.
“The bags were all lit and this year candles could also be attached to a ribbon to represent those near and dear to us that have been affected by cancer.
Several silent laps were walked in the darkness to honor those who have been affected by cancer. Names were read of everyone who had a luminaria purchased for them.
A free-will offering dinner was also served, with over 250 people taking part.
The hair donation was a new highlight to the event with many people gathering around to watch the cutting of the hair and knowing that someone in need will be using that hair for a wig.
Many great silent auction baskets were sold and at the end of the day the Needles and Nails 4-H group had 25 bags to deliver to a couple hospitals for chemo patients to enjoy in addition to the bags that several people bought to take to a chemo patient.
We served almost 250 people at dinner. The kids enjoyed the games and special laps while many adults reminisced about their cancer experiences with each other.
Knowing Cherine and I along with countless volunteers helped raise money for cancer research makes all the hard work worthwhile.
No discussion where the event will be held next year or if it will be indoors again but a follow up meeting will be held in May.
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