Looking for survivors, volunteers

Times Reporter

 

There will be an open house for anyone who may be interested in learning more about Relay for Life on Nov. 9 at the Travelodge. The purpose of the open house is to provide a place to have questions answered, but also, people may sign up as committee members, volunteers, survivors, teams or participants. 

“The goal is to allow people to sign up and ask questions as well as give feedback to last year’s event so we can improve. An open-house style was chosen because it is less formal and people can come and go as their schedule allows,” said Kristel Lang, one of the committee chairs. 

“We chose now because this is the time when the initial stages of Relay for Life begins. We want to spread the word that starting early allows for more fundraising to occur, as well as lets people do things at a more relaxed pace than rushing at the very end.”

Lang said the goal this year for Relay for Life is to sign up 20 teams and raise $100,000. The Relay for Life event takes place in Strathmore in June and participants walk all night as a show of strength and their determination to help find a cure for cancer. Over 500 events happen each year across the country, joining cancer survivors and affected family members for a celebration of life, and to remember those who have lost their battle. 

“We see the survivors as a big part of Relay for Life, they are why we Relay,” said Lang. 

“Survivors show that our efforts of raising money for research and resources helps people to survive after they begin their journey of hearing the words, you have cancer. They are crucial and we are hopeful to have 75 survivors this year and we would also like to honor their caregivers.”

The open house will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Travelodge, and anyone interested in learning more about the Relay for Life is encouraged to attend.