For several years, our church has participated in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life each spring.  Most of us have been touched by the disease; either friends or family.  The United Methodist Men are participating this year for our church   First, walkers are needed, there is supposed to be a walker on the track at all times.  Some people may walk several times during the event.  Some members spend the night - no sleep - just great fellowship and very cold!  You can pledge money for the walkers.  We'll be posting a list of the walkers at a later date.  For $5.00, you can purchase a luminary in honor or memory of someone.  The names will be called out at the relay.  For more information,  call our office (783-1856).

    Relay For Life started in Tacoma, WA in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt ran and walked solo around the track at the University of Puget Sound for 24 hours, raising more than $27,000 for the fight against cancer.  From there grew the American Cancer Society's nationwide signature activity, RELAY FOR LIFE.  What started as one man's dream is now an event taking place in over 2800 communities across this country as well as in the U.S. Territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Mariana Islands.  Most importantly, it is raising millions of dollars to fund our life saving programs of research, education, advocacy and service --- over $168 million in 2000!

    In addition to being a really fun, really big community slumber party and great fundraising event, it has been described as a "huge compassionate support group" --- a place where friends, family and loved ones can come together to celebrate survivorship and to honor those who have lost the battle to this dreaded disease.

    Relay For Life is the ultimate community event.  It is a family activity that anyone can participate in. . .from the very young to the most senior of senior citizens.  Requirements are the desire to fight cancer --- to fight back, and a commitment of 12 to 24 hours of your time.

    From the opening lap, led by cancer survivors, to the emotional candle lighting luminaria ceremony, through the triumphant final lap, Relay For Life is something few participants will ever forget.