RELAY

comes to our survivors,” Beverly Grant, Co-chair for Glasscock and Howard County Relay For Life, said. “By taking our event virtual we are keeping the awareness up, but we are also giving an opportunity for all those who want to take part, without having to put themselves at risk by being in a large crowd.”

A virtual Relay event is set for this Saturday, Aug. 29 at 6 p.m.

While there may not be a first lap to walk, the sentiment is still there and together virtually - that first lap will be walked as a trip down memory lane is taken. Relay committee members have been requesting survivors to submit photos that were compiled into a video that will mark the beginning of Relay, just as the Survivor Lap traditionally does. Cancer survivors were encouraged to hold up a sign in the submitted photos and celebrate their journey.

"This year especially since our world

has been shut down, we haven't had a lot of exposure (for Relay) and we need to do what we can, in our community, to keep Relay going," Grant said.

For the past several years, according to Grant, the local Relay has been one of the most successful in the area and she hopes to continue that tradition this year. Teams who have already registered are encouraged to contact Grant or Julie Alvarez and let them know how fundraising is going.

"There is still time for teams to register. The goal was to have all teams registered by August 1, but we want to hear from all teams and have as many that want to participate," Grant said.

During the virtual event, pictures from previous events will be featured as a way to look back on the progression that has been made over the years, but also to serve as a connection between the years of history that exist in Howard and Glasscock counties when it comes to the support that has been shown to the event. The Luminaria ceremony will still take place this year and those who have lost the fight

against cancer will be remembered in a video. Those wanting to honor a loved one can send photos and names to Grant or Alvarez.

"We want our cancer survivors to know we still care and we are bringing Relay home with another successful event," she said.

The week leading up to Relay will include a Spirit Week and an online auction. Donations are still being accepted. Photos, donations and team registration information can be sent to bgrant@ homehospicewtx.com. All monies need to be turned in, from the teams, to the Home Hospice office. For more information, contact Beverly Grant at 432-2708762 or 432-264-7599.

Amanda Duforat is the Managing Editor at the Big Spring Herald. To contact her, e-mail editor@bigspringh