American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life

Tama, Iowa June 15, 2009 This weekend’s annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life raised over $40,000 to be used in the fight against cancer. “Tama County residents really showed their spirit this weekend,” said Laurie Baack volunteer committee member for the 2009 American Cancer Society Relay For Life. “Many cancer survivors showed up to participate as well. It was very touching and emotional for all of us.” Over 30 survivors were honored at the American Cancer Society Relay For Life to celebrate their survival of their cancer journey. Twenty-five teams participated in the Relay For Life which represented area families, businesses, schools, clubs and organizations. Baack said that money raised in the 2009 Relay For Life will be used to speed up the search for new weapons to fight cancer. “In order to expand our patient services in Tama County and research new ways to treat patients, we’ve got to channel more public attention and money into this problem,” Baack said.

Chester Bearden, cancer survivor, who participated in the Relay said the American Cancer Society Relay For Life “It shows how people can live rich lives instead of moping about,” Bearden said.

American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Tama County was made possible by the volunteers from all part of the county, who gave of their time and talents to plan the event. Also thanks to all the sponsors who donated to support the American Cancer Society mission to eliminate cancer. It was a great event and way to fight cancer in Tama County.

To learn more about Relay For Life, visit www.RelayForLife.org.

Having cancer is hard. Finding help shouldn’t be. As a nationwide organization, the American Cancer Society helps everyone facing the disease, when and where they need assistance. Dollars raised through Relay For Life are providing hope to people in the [city/community name] community. For cancer information, day-to-day help, or emotional support, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

Survivors-Celebrating Life! That is who took this survivor’s lap at the beginning of the night’s long event. Seeing smiles on the faces of the survivors was a wonderful and glorious moment. Photo By Amy Jantzen

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.