TOUCHING MANY LIVES
Relay for Life draws crowds to help fight cancer
LOWER POTTSGROVE >> It was an emotional day for many as hundreds of participants rounded the track at Pottsgrove High School.
The 2019 Relay for Life of Pottstown returned with a bang on a recent Saturday as survivors and caregivers took to the track to take part in a 10-hour relay to raise awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society.
“We’re very excited to bring the community together to fight cancer,” said Gwen Allen as she addressed a crowd in the bleachers.
A sea of purple filled the bleachers in support of those fighting cancer and cheers could be heard as American Cancer Society leaders revealed how much money was raised through volunteers.
As of Saturday morning, volunteers helped raise $134,378 for The American Cancer Society. The group was hoping to meet its goal of $300,000 by the end of the day Saturday.
“The American Cancer Society is able to touch the lives of so many. Those who are currently battling cancer — those who may face a diagnosis in the future and those who may avoid a diagnosis all together because of your fundraising efforts,” continued Allen.
Participants heard from John Faust, president and CEO of Diamond Credit Union, a major fundraiser for and supporter of The American Cancer Society. Rebecca Theriaque, senior community development manager for the American Cancer Society and cancer patient herself, also addressed the crowd.
“I’m not standing here today as the American Cancer Society staff representative. I’m standing here today as the daughter who lost both parents, as the mother of an almost 12-year-old son who I was told would not survive. I’m standing here today because I took chemotherapy that’s in a bag sitting in that silver trailer,” said Theriaque.
“I’m standing here today because of you, because of volunteers who decided that they would build cardboard cars, run pie-inthe-face contests, who would stay up until 11 o’clock in the pouring rain to load a truck. I stand here because of you — The American Cancer Society.”
Following opening ceremonies, cancer survivors and grand marshals Mikey Buno and Joann Laura cut the ceremonial ribbon as survivors took the first lap around the track to the sound of bagpipes. Survivors met with their caregivers halfway around the track to complete the first lap together.
Once the event is in full swing, teammates take turns walking the track or path to symbolize the ongoing fight against cancer.
Between laps, participants can check out other teams’ tents for games and activities, and help support the cause by purchasing raffle tickets or food.
The event lasts all day and into the evening when the relay with come to close just after a luminaria ceremony.
“Today we’re here to celebrate. This celebration of life brings Pottstown together in a unified effort to fight cancer and symbolize the fight that cancer patients must face after they’re diagnosed with cancer,” said Allen. “The light of the day and the darkness of night parallel the physical effects, emotions and mental state of a cancer patient while undergoing treatment.”