Listen Here
By Bo Terrill and Olivia Wile
Twitter: because_terrill o_wile
Email: terrillr@findlay.edu
wileo@findlay.edu
Relay For Life is a worldwide event that allows people to celebrate and remember those who have won, are still fighting and have lost their battle with cancer. For the 10th year in a row, joining those all over the word who support this cause is the Findlay Community.
On Saturday March 24, from 1-6 p.m., the 2018 Relay for Life event took place in the Kholer Fitness Center. The theme of the event was Under the Sea, one widly embraced by the crowd.
Colleges Against Cancer President Jennifer Darling says that throughout her time at UF, she’s participated in three Relay for Life events and several other events in her hometown of London, Oh. as well.
“The opening ceremonies during the survivor lap,” explained Darling about her favorite part of the event. “All survivors present are honored kicking the event off with a special lap just for them. The day when someone is diagnosed with cancer, is the day they become a survivor.”
Though the survivors lap is a heavier part of the day, Darling explains there were many other lighter activities for participants to enjoy.
“[There was] a live DJ, photo booth, theme laps, inflatables, and face painting. Food and T-shirts were also available,” said Darling.
Darling wants to clarify, however, the main purpose of Relay For Life is to continuously walk around the track.
“It symbolizes cancer does not stop, so neither do we,” stated Darling.
Junior Colleen Hoke says the UF swimming and diving team were among those who came together to support the Relay For Life cause.
“It was great we were all able to be there as a team supporting Relay for Life,” said Hoke. “[I] enjoyed the lap of silence and participating in all the activities and the positive atmosphere.”
This year’s Relay for Life had approximately 560 participants who collectively raised $36,328.92 for the American Cancer Society.
Darling is encouraged by the success of this years event, as Relay for Life has a special meaning for her and her family.
“We all know someone with cancer, but it was when my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer when I took the event to heart,” said Darling. “When she was sick, the American Cancer Society helped us in numerous ways. Now, eight years later, we both are great advocates for cancer awareness, prevention, and fundraising for a cause that we hold dearly to our hearts.”
If you are interested in joining Colleges Against Cancer, please contact Jennifer Darling at darlingj@findlay.edu or stop by Cosian Health Center.
