Fourth annual benefit raises $157, 000 from the community
Excitement, camaraderie, celebration of life, with an underlying sense of bittersweet memories, were a part of the atmosphere at the fourth annual Relay for Life, held during the 24 hours between Saturday morning and Sunday.
The event, which raises money for cancer research, kicks off each year with a “Survivor Lap,” when cancer survivors often joined by family members circle the track dressed in colorful special T-shirts.
This year’s fundraising goal was $155,000; by the end of the event, at least $157,000 had been raised.
“But money keeps coming in, and that doesn’t include matching donations,” said Judy Circuit, a cancer survivor who has been involved with the event since its inception.
Circuit, whose daughter, Chris Shilling, has been event co-chair for three years, said she originally got involved because her granddaughter, Shilling’s daughter, was undergoing treatment for leukemia.
“Little did I dream that I would be diagnosed,” she said. “Everyone’s life has been touched by cancer. You never know when its going to get you.
“This event has a real sense of community, and not only is it spiritually uplifting, gives you hope, it also is a lot of fun. I wish more of the community would come out, even if they aren’t on a team, and just walk around, enjoy the atmosphere. Many teams also set up booths to sell food, flowers, things they’ve made, and all that money also goes into the pot.”
Circuit said the event has been growing every year. This year, at least 44 teams participated, an increase over last year.
When a team signs up for the relay, members agree to have at least one person walking during the entire 24 hours.
Teams in the event often come up with creative team names, T-shirts or outfits, even face paint. Team tents and gathering areas made a colorful display in sunny, windy conditions over the weekend.
A highlight of the event is the luminaria ceremony. Luminaria are purchased and decorated in memory of someone who died of cancer, is a survivor or is still struggling with the disease.
The decorated paper bags filled with sand and a candle are placed around the walking track. The candles are lit in the evening, making a poignant display for walkers and those camping out.
Former Jackson Elementary School Mike Crocker, who is battling pancreatic cancer, was master of ceremonies for the luminaria ceremony.
This year, as well as last, Morgan Hill’s Relay for Life was held at Oakwood School. A large Oakwood contingent turned out this year, in memory of teacher Lisa Curley, who lost her battle with cancer earlier this year.
Curley’s sister, Lisa Bassett, shared memories during the ceremony, and Curley’s daughter, Annalise Curley, participated in the event.
Marilyn Dubil covers education and law enforcement for The Times. She can be reached by e-mail at md****@mo*************.com or phoning (408) 779-4106 Ext. 202
