Jefferson County walkers have joined together to walk to battle cancer during the Jefferson County Relay for Life to be held Friday from 6 p.m. until midnight at Watson Chapel High School. This celebration of life brings together numerous groups and individuals concerned about cancer.
Teams will gather together to celebrate anyone who has battled cancer, remember loved ones who have died and to encourage people to fight against the disease.
Relay for Life is a unique fundraising event that allows participants — including patients, medical support staff, corporations, civic organizations, faith-based groups and community volunteers — to join together.
“Relay for Life reminds us that progress has been made in the fight against cancer and that everyone who participates is making a difference,” a spokesman said.
The event opens as cancer survivors take the first lap around the track at the high school.
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“This emotional time sets the stage for the importance of each participant’s contribution,” the spokesman said.
A festive atmosphere usually develops around the track area at this event. As participants make new friends and spend time with old ones, the relay celebration and camp-out begins. Team members celebrate, barbecue, play games and walk the track throughout the evening.
Highlighting the evening is the luminaria ceremony held after dark to honor cancer survivors and to remember those who have died. Hundreds of luminaria (bags filled with sand and a lit candle) line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of their contributions.