Relay for Life- Laurel, Nebraska

Happy Birthday, Sharon!

I didn't know much about the Relay for Life (http://www.relayforlife.org/relay/) until this year, and, in hindsight, I don't know how that is possible. Cancer has always been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. So many beautiful people in my life have been affected by it; therefore, it has affected me. When my sister-in-law Sharon was diagnosed with stage IV lymphoma, enough was enough. Derrick wanted there to be a Relay for Life team for the church, and boy, was there an enthusiastic response! We had survivors in our own congregation who wanted to lead the team’s efforts to raise money for cancer research and help to bring about more birthdays. Each team member had someone they were walking to honor. The Luther Leaguers were psyched to be contributing members. When a classmate was diagnosed with Cancer in the spring, this hit even closer to home for all of them. In the end, we raised nearly $2,000.00 for the cause; I think all of us learned so much.

We heard many stories about heroic people, and I couldn’t hold back the tears when the survivors took a victory lap around the track, followed by the caregivers and then all of the participants. So many people were involved in this effort. Our church team earned money throughout the year from Lenten church suppers, the Easter Sonrise breakfast, selling luminaries and other donations. Our Boy Scout Troop 208 and the Laurel Cub Scouts had a big part to play in the Relay for Life. The Scouts, under the direction of the Relay for Life Leaders, helped to set up all of the luminaries that honor cancer survivors and victims and then participated in the flag ceremony during the opening ceremonies. The Leaders of the Relay for Life, not only organized this tremendous event, but they ran all of the various activities throughout the night. In addition to walking, there were games like Minute to Win It challenges and talent show competitions (congratulations, Hannah), plus there was a nonstop kickball game, church services and lots of delicious food prepared by more volunteers and many sponsors. This was a life changing event for me.

My sister-in-law Sharon is winning her battle; she is one of the strongest people I have ever known. As if overcoming stage IV lymphoma is not enough, she has started training for the Danskin Corp triathlon to end cancer. She says she was inspired by our Relay for Life team. We have much to be thankful for, and come November, we have a very special birthday to celebrate! Happy Birthday, Sharon.