Schuyler Relay for Life raises $32K

ODESSA--Schuyler County Relay for Life helped raise some $32,000 as part of their 10th annual event Saturday, May 30. The relay took place at the Odessa-Montour track, garnering some 18 teams and 175 total participants. For 12 hours -- from noon to midnight -- participants circled the track to raise cancer awareness as well as funds to fight the disease.
Relay for Life raises funds for the American Cancer Society, with more than 4 million people around the world participating in more than 20 different countries. The event not only celebrates the strength and courage of those who have beaten cancer, but also honors the memories of those who died fighting it.
The event began with opening ceremonies, followed by a survivors lap, where the more than 40 cancer survivors attending walked together around the track. A caregivers lap was also held to honor the 65 in attendance who have helped take care of someone with cancer to thank them for their support. At night, a luminaria ceremony was held where candles were lit to remember people we have lost to cancer, to support people who currently have cancer, and to honor people who have fought cancer in the past.
"The event was a huge success even though the weather came in and tried to ruin it," organizer Tiffany Zimmer said. Zimmer added the group is still fundraising and will continue their fundraising efforts through Aug. 31.