Residents from Hamilton, Wayne and White counties will gather Saturday, June 13th to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer and raise funds to support the fight against the disease during the annual Relay For Life event. The Hamilton/Wayne/White Relay For Life will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Carlton Center in McLeansboro. Organizers say the event is open to the public and will feature entertainment, food, raffles, children’s activities and face painting.
“Friends from Hamilton, Wayne and White Counties will come together to remember those touched by cancer and raise funds to help eliminate this disease which affects too many of our families and friends,” said Event Chair Janice Crow.
Cancer survivors and caregivers may begin registering at the Survivor Table at 4 p.m. The luminaria, raffle and food booths will also open at that time and remain available throughout the evening. The official Relay For Life program begins at 5 p.m. with the Opening Ceremony, during which cancer survivors will take the honorary first lap while receiving support and encouragement from attendees.
“It doesn’t matter if you were diagnosed 10 days ago or 10 years ago, we honor your strength and courage with every step taken,” Crow said.
The Kathy Smith Volunteer of the Year Award will also be presented during the event. A highlight of the evening will be the Luminaria Ceremony at 8 p.m. During the ceremony, activities will pause, the room will be darkened and luminaria bags will be illuminated in honor and memory of those affected by cancer.
“It is an emotional ceremony as each glowing candle represents someone special,” said Luminaria Chair Cindy Anselment.
According to Publicity Chair Diane Kunkel, organizers encourage community members to attend and participate.
“Relay is open to the public. We invite everyone to enjoy a relaxing evening and walk a lap in honor of loved ones affected by cancer,” Kunkel said.
Event Schedule
4 p.m. – Survivor Registration; Luminaria, Raffle and Food Booths Open
5 p.m. – Opening Ceremony
5:30-8 p.m. – Music, Social Hour and Kids Activities
6:30 p.m. – Team Activity and Entertainment
8 p.m. – Luminaria Ceremony