One lap at a time… relay brings hope
An illuminated track celebrated life and tears of remembrance were shed
By ADAM STEWART Staff Reporter
Luminaries honoring loved ones lost to cancer line the track at Stanwood High School. As darkness falls, the glowing bags light the way for memories and reflection. PHOTOS BY ADAM STEWART | STANWOOD/CAMANO NEWS
Cancer is not particular.
It affects the young, the elderly and everyone in-between.
The reality of cancer was apparent as survivors of all ages kicked off the annual Relay for Life at Stanwood High School on Friday evening.
Under a dark and looming sky, the track became illuminated with celebrations of life, hugs from family and friends, tears of remembrance and hope for a cure.
After the initial lap, teams of participants took to the track to continue the all-night affair.
The Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) largest fundraising event.
Since 1985, when Dr. Gordon Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Tacoma, ran and walked around a track for 24 hours to raise money for ACS, the relay has expanded to more than 5,000 communities around the United States, along with events in 19 other countries, bringing approximately 3.5 million people together to raise money for research.
Little survivors are big inspiration for participants at the relay.
The passion of one man has spread to communities such as Stanwood, and the response continues as citizens gathered at the high school track for the eighth consecutive year.
Official participation numbers and dollars raised have not been tallied as of press time, but the committee is optimistic about the results after witnessing the enthusiasm of participants.
Kerri Feay, co-chairman for the relay, said people were charged up.
“Everyone was excited,” said Feay. “It turned out to be magical.”
Local residents and participants in the relay also had a strong showing during the ACS Cancer Prevention Study-3, said Jeny Heckman, chair for the study.
Doreen Schmitt, a dedicated relay advocate, walks another survivor lap with her family.
“Our goal was to have 192 people sign up,” she said. “We ended up with 194.”
People were signing up because they knew someone battling cancer, or have lost a loved one to the disease, she said. Many were keeping future generations in mind as they volunteered to get on the frontlines of cancer research
“It was a great, inspiring turnout,” she said.
During the middle hours of the relay, when the track emptied as people settled down for a break, Heckman said two young women began singing as they walked.
“Their voices echoed over the entire field,” she said. “It was a special moment.”
Despite cooler temps and the threat of rain, Heckman said the spirit of the event remained strong.
“We’re excited to start planning for next year,” she said.
Staff Reporter Adam
Stewart: 629-8066 ext. 115
or astewart@scnews.com.
