DeKalb Countians by the hundreds filled Greenbrook Park Friday evening to show their love and support for cancer survivors and to join the fight against the disease during the 15th annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
More than $35,000 had already been raised prior to the event.
Cancer survivors in attendance joined in taking Relay’s opening lap around the walking trail, after an opening ceremony with included prayers, a moving testimonial from cancer survivors, and a song in their honor by Shelley Cross and Bonnie Rigsby, who are also cancer survivors.
After dark, Relay again paid tribute to survivors and those lost to cancer in a luminaria ceremony, with lighted luminaria bags lining the walking track in the park.
Several church groups, civic clubs, businesses, and service organizations helped raise money through sales of food, games for kids, and other fun filled activities.
The program also featured lots of entertainment, most of it singing, from the park’s pavilion. Four guys even dressed up as women to participate in a male beauty contest where the winner is determined by having raised the most money during the evening. Todd Stoglin of Federal Mogul generated the most money at $358. Tony Nabors, also of Federal Mogul raised $352. Zach Thompson and Jordan Gash, both of the Elizabeth Chapel Baptist Church Youth Group, received $160, and $100 in donations respectively.
Funds raised at Relay For Life will enable the American Cancer Society to support local services and resources for cancer patients and their families. Funds also support critical cancer research and community education programs designed to teach people how to reduce their risk of developing cancer.
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service.
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