Waupaca Relay for Life is still recruiting teams.
This year’s relay, which raises funds for the American Cancer Society, is scheduled from 5-11:30 p.m. Friday, June 6, at Waupaca High School.
Teams of individuals, churches and businesses come together to “Celebrate, Remember and Fight Back.”
To date, Relay for Life teams include Gusmer Enterprises, FootLuce (Waupaca High School Forensics), Manawa Fire and Rescue, Boy Scout Troop 634/Cub Scout Pack 3634, Waupaca County Relay Gals, Scandinavia Lutheran Church, Waupaca FFA/Casey Lake 4H, and Trinity Lutheran Church.
“Everyone is affected by cancer,” Joni Kettleson said, “Whether family member or friend at work, we see it everywhere. This is why I relay.”
Kettleson has served on the Waupaca Planning Committee for five years, and works with the community teams.
The Relay for Life of Waupaca draws more than 100 participants each year.
“There are a lot of people aware of what we do, but don’t know how to get involved. It’s really for anyone touched by cancer,” said Michele Drake, event chair. “People don’t have to be on a team to participate. We are working to make this a larger community event.”
Drake said she and her family got involved in Relay for Life in 2006, when her father passed away from cancer.
She had heard of Relay for Life, but had no idea what was involved. She attended the event and felt an incredible amount of support from those involved.
Each Relay event begins with an opening ceremony. This year the local Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts will participate in the flag ceremony.
The first lap is completed by survivors, followed by caregivers, then the introduction of the teams.
Later in the evening there is a luminaria ceremony to remember friends and family lost to cancer, honor those who have fought cancer, and support those whose fight continues. Personalized bags with candles are placed around the track as glowing tributes to those affected by cancer.
Funds raised for the American Cancer Society helps support research, education, prevention and support programs. The American Cancer Society has a toll-free, 24-hour information line at 888-227-2345.
For more information, contact Michele Drake at [email protected]. To join a local team or donate, go to relayforlife.org/waupacawi