by Shawn Nowlin
On Saturday, May 13 a sizeable crowd gathered again this year at Longwood Park for the annual American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life Race, the world’s largest cancer fundraising event. Many participants brought their own water bottles and wore shirts that read “I Am A Cancer Survivor.”
“Unfortunately, my family has been stricken with cancer for over six decades now,” said Roanoke County resident Michele Wilbekin. “This deadly disease took away my sister and my best friend. I can’t put into words what it means to see so many people out here today.”
Lisa Bain joined the Relay for Life Leadership Committee in 2013 after being diagnosed and treated for breast cancer.
“Individuals and teams raise money to support the ACS as they help those currently battling cancer, those who may face a diagnosis in the future, and those who may avoid a diagnosis altogether thanks to education, prevention and early detection. We had 36 teams sign up this year,” she said.
Many companies played a part in ensuring the success of the event. Bain also gave credit to additional businesses that gave support to the Survivor Banquet held April 20.
“Cancer is the type of disease that transcends ethnicity, gender and age said Andrew Houser. “Everyone knows someone affected by cancer which is why events like the race are so important.”
Jordan Thomas, Corey Batie and Jamie Allen are all area residents. The three longtime friends have each been diagnosed with cancer but refuse to let the disease control their lives.
“Many, like the late great Stuart Scott, have fallen to cancer but never gave up,” Allen said. “It’s vital to have a strong support system and organizations like American Cancer Society provide just that.”
“Relay for Life started in May 1985, when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, WA. He raised $27,000 to help the American Cancer Society fight the dreaded disease,” Bain said. “I’m extremely proud of the survivors, fighters and caregivers for what they have dealt with or are dealing with currently. We also honor those who lost their battle with the disease. It’s great that our community can come together for this common cause. Of course, if we can raise money for ACS along the way that is even better.”
