Cancer survivors took center stage Friday night during the opening ceremony of DeKalb County’s 14th Annual Relay for Life at Greenbrook Park.
After introducing themselves and sharing the number of years of being cancer free, each survivor was presented a medallion in their honor.
They then officially launched the event by joining together to walk the first lap around the track lined with luminarias.
Carrying a huge purple and white survivor sign, applause rang out with each step they took.
Members of Boy Scout Troop 347 presented the colors, followed by the National Anthem performed by Suzanne Slager.
Smithville Church of God Minister Bro. Michael Farr delivered the invocation prior to the survivor introductions.
Survivors Sherry Cross and Bonnie Rigsby performed a special song in honor of survivors, followed by prayer by Bro. B.J. Thomas pastor of Calvary Baptist Church.
The night was filled with music, singing, celebration and a community coming together to support and raise money for a cause that, unfortunately, touches each one of us at one time or another.
Several groups, soloists, church groups, and more entertained throughout the night, as relay teams made up of businesses, schools and church groups sold food, drinks and desserts, also providing games and fun for the young and young at heart.
The celebration, including the lighting of several torches in remembrance or in honor of cancer fighters, continued until midnight.
Teams remained throughout the night in representation of how “cancer does not sleep.”
An amount of near $55,000 was raised by the close of this year’s event with more anticipated to come in.
Though the night of Relay is recognized as the largest night of donations, fundraising is encouraged and continued throughout the year.
Money raised goes to research for a cure and DeKalb County Patient Services.