A local way to fight cancer
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Grayslake/Round Lake will take place from 6 p.m. Saturday, July 17, to 6 a.m. Sunday, July 18, at Round Lake Senior High School, 800 High School Drive, in in Round Lake.
Relay For Life of Grayslake/Round Lake is an annual overnight event to celebrate the lives of those who have cancer; remember those lost to the disease; and fight back against a disease that takes too much.
I attended a Relay event in Grayslake several years ago and was touched by how spirited and emotional the event was for the organizers and participating teams. Until you have been to a Relay, I discovered, you really don't know what it's all about.
For Relay, teams of local businesses, schools, churches, community groups and families raise funds – prior to and at the event – to help fund support services for area patients and their families, cancer research, community educational programs and advocacy initiatives.
Relay For Life of Grayslake/Round Lake starts with local cancer survivors uniting to walk the first lap of the event. They are then joined by family, friends and co-workers – the caregivers who helped them through their battle with cancer.
“Relay is a celebration of hope and an opportunity to reflect and share with others that have been through it,” said Effie Zoubouridis, a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society in a release. “It is also a time to honor those in our community who lost their battle to the disease."
The Luminaria Ceremony, held just after dark, is in memory of those who have lost their battle against cancer and to honor cancer survivors and caregivers. Luminaria – paper bags bearing the name of a loved one that are filled with sand and a candle – line the track and continue to burn throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions.
Anyone wishing to form a team, participate in survivor activities or honor a loved one with a luminaria should contact the American Cancer Society at 847-317-0025 or visit www.relayforlifegrayslake.com
Proceeds from the event will go to the American Cancer Society.
