Southern Relay for Life brightens cancer fightWhen the South Worcester Relay for Life kicks off at the Lower Shore Family YMCA Saturday night,
Vertical Motorit will mark the 10th year that the committees and teams have raised funds and walked in the support of the fight against cancer. Following the national theme "Celebrating More Birthdays,"
squirrel cage motorthe relay hopes to pass the half-million dollar mark after $471,646 was raised in the past nine years.
The opening ceremonies begin at 6 p.m. with the presentation of the colors by the Pocomoke High School MCJROTC and a rendition of the "Star-Spangled Banner" by Amy Wigglesworth. Others participating in the ceremonies are Trevor Byrd, giving the invocation, and Jay Pittman, a longtime supporter of the Relay who will speak as a caregiver. Sponsors will also be named.
A major function of the relay is the recognition of the cancer survivors. They will have a special lap, the first one around the track,
Vertical Motoraccompanied by singing by Nu-Beginnings.
squirrel cage motorFollowing their lap they will enjoy a special dinner. Anyone who has not signed up as a survivor is welcomed to do so by contacting Donna Byrd the night of the Relay.
A highlight of the evening will be the Ceremony of Hope, usually held at dusk. As the light dims over the campsites, the night is brightened by the glow of lighted
bags called luminaries, each of which has a special meaning to a donor. Some celebrate the life of a survivor who has battled cancer and lived to tell the tale. Others are lighted in memory of loved ones who have lost the battle. There will still be time to purchase a luminary that evening, either for a $10 contribution or a $25 contribution for a
gold luminary.
Other laps in the early evening include the Committee Lap, the Team Captain Lap and a Banner Parade, which includes everyone. They will be followed by laps in which all teams participate the rest of the evening. They include such titles as: The Celebrate Lap (another birthday),
Vertical MotorRemember Lap,
squirrel cage motorFight Back Lap, Hope Lap, Slip, Slap, Slop Lap (for sun safety), Cancer Doesn't take a Vacation Lap and many other titles.
