By Jordan Studer
jstuder@wbcowqel.com
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not,” The Lorax. This quote was made popular by the Dr. Seuss movie, The Lorax, but it was spread across a poster in Bucyrus Friday night at the annual Relay For Life walk.
The American Cancer Society Support Group team mentions how the quote that they had plastered in front of their tent (which related to the theme of Dr. Seuss), is more than accurate in the battle against cancer. Nothing will get better unless people care enough to combat for those who are battling against the awful disease.
The team captain of the ACS Support Group explained why Relay For Life is so important to their team. “We need to find a cure! Too many people have died,” she exclaimed.
That exact statement was in the hearts of many as they gathered at Wynford High School to walk and support this year’s annual Relay For Life walk to help fight against cancer.
“We want to make a difference in the fight against cancer,” Deb Hilborn, community manager Relay For Life, said.
With a monetary goal of $78,000, participants want their fight to count. At the beginning of the Relay Friday evening, $36,269 was raised, 46% of the goal which can be met until August 31st. They are well on their way to reaching their target.
Walking around to each campsite and talking to the individuals participating, there is not one person that hasn’t had cancer touch their lives in some way or another. When asking why Relay For Life is so important to all of them, each individual has a touching story.
“For the future of my grandchildren. I want them to grow up in a world where cancer is only found in history books. It’d be nice,” participant Donita Hammond replied without hesitation.
Tabitha Keller, with IB Tech, says she supports Relay for Life not only because her company is such a strong advocate of it, but also for a reason that hits closer to home.
“Relay is important to me on a personal level as my daughter is a survivor,” Keller explained.
One cancer survivor, Dave Greenich, shared why he continues to support Relay For Life. “I enjoy coming here with my wife, Melissa, because it’s really cool to get to walk around the track with my caregiver and other people and to remember the good and the bad altogether,” Greenich explained.
Another survivor, Cheryl Luke, also commented, “I think that Relay For Life is a great thing that gives people courage. It’s nice to get together with others and know what we are all thankful for,” Luke explained.
When asking them, as survivors, what they would tell someone who is battling through cancer right now, Greenich was quick to answer.
“Not to give up because it is possible to get through all of this and make it better even when you are sick. It makes it better knowing that you have support,” Greenich encouraged.
Although cancer is taking the lives of many and hindering the lives of others, there are still just as many people ready to fight with them and for them until a cure is found.