With great pride, I say that our "Relay for Life" event is a big deal. The whole town turns out to show their support! Schools, churches, businesses and civic groups all have their themed tables, as team members gather round the JCHS track to show their support for the American Cancer Society. The local newspaper even prints a special supplement for the newspaper!
As I prepare to attend this year's Relay for Life event this evening, things will be different. I'm not going to watch my children or students perform. I'm not going to support my school's team, see my friends, or entertain my children for a few hours. Tonight, I'm attending my first "Relay for Life" as a survivor. I will participate in the survivor's lap, with my family continuing to support me as the wonderful caregivers they have been. There will be luminaries lit with my name on them.
RFL chains were sold at my school as a fundraiser. |
This evening, when my family attends Jones County's Relay for Life, it will be my first. My first event as a cancer survivor. Oh, what a difference one year can make. Just like last year, I will proudly wear my Jones County Relay for Life shirt, but I'll have something new...my wig!