Relay for Life: The St Johns Honor Guard participated in the opening ceremonies
by Maralyn Fink
On Friday afternoon under cloudy skies, I headed for the 4H grounds for the Relay For Life opening. I started by taking pictures of the tent set-up and all the signs depicting a loved one. These were lined up on both sides of the lap track and gives you a real sense of empathy for the people who are diagnosed with this disease. For some, they are Survivors and for some they have lost their battle.
I knew some names that lost the battle but also know some that are a survivor.
I later returned there for the 6 pm opening ceremonies. I met up with Stu Fitzpatrick who graciously helped me with what to expect. He answered any questions and explained how the ceremony works.
The ceremony opened with speaker Joel Hanaman, team fund raising and was followed with the National Anthem sang by Renee Haviland. Kristen Habanks followed by speaking of her cancer experience.
The St Johns Honor Guard then led the Survivors on their lap around the track followed by caretakers. Following the ceremony a dinner at Smith Hall for the Cancer Survivors and caretakers with the help of the National Honor Society from St Johns High School was held.
The event ran from 2 pm Friday to Saturday at 2pm. There were numerous events for the two days including games, movies, silent auction and many other events. Luminaries lined both sides of the tract to be lit at dark in memory of loved ones.
If you have never attended a Relay For Life, take a minute and attend next year. It is worth your time to help support these Survivors just by your presence.
25 teams and 208 participants have raised $135,037.45