By Breana Krotz
Some things in life have the unique way of bringing individuals together to fight for a worthy cause or a greater good. Cancer is one of them.
Ohio University's Relay For Life, a new student organization at Ohio University, is helping the American Cancer Society (ACS) in its efforts to beat cancer by sponsoring their first annual Relay For Life. The signature event of the ACS is an 18-hour walk that raises funds for cancer research. The event will take place May 16-17 from 6 p.m. to noon at West State Street Park. The Ohio University community, including students, faculty and staff, are encouraged to help the ACS in their fight against cancer.
"Ohio University's Relay For Life is hoping to build a solid foundation of students and University employees who are passionate about supporting the American Cancer Society and their battle," said Jennifer McGuinness, American Cancer Society project manager.
Students, faculty and staff can form teams of 8-15 people who camp out and take turns walking around the track throughout the entire event. The walk will include a variety of events such as a survivor dinner, luminary ceremony, music, games and all night entertainment. The Relay For Life committee's goal is to have 65 teams participate in the event.
"Involvement in Relay For Life is a rewarding experience for participants. It gives them a sense of empowerment that they have had an opportunity to join the fight and help find a cure for cancer," McGuinness said.
Money raised during the event will be used for cancer research, education, prevention, advocacy and services.
"I am hoping we have a large turn out with many teams consisting not only of students, but also of faculty and staff. I really hope to see the students and faculty out supporting Relay For Life, and having a lot of fun!" said Michele Satchell, Relay For Life chairperson.
Cancer survivors will be honored at the event and are also encouraged to get involved. The walk will begin with a survivor lap in which cancer survivors take a victory lap showing their triumph over cancer. Later in the evening a candlelight ceremony will honor survivors and those lost during the battle. For more information, e-mail Satchell at relay@ohio.edu.
Breana Krotz is a student writer with University Communications and Marketing.
