Relay for Life has become to many a symbol of hope and caring. Seeing members of a community come together to raise money and donate their time is an inspiration to those who believe a cure for cancer may some day be found.
The American Cancer Society Relay, which will be held at the Scotia-Glenville High School track, Friday, June 15, for the fifth time.
Almost everyone has been touched by the loss of a loved one to cancer, and that makes Relay For Life an event that is close to many people’s hearts, especially for Scotia-Glenville relay chairman Keith Davidson.
Davidson, who now lives in Queensbury, was raised in Scotia, and said bringing the Relay to his hometown seemed fitting. After losing his mother, Ellen, to cancer at the age of 47, he decided to get involved with the American Caner Society.
I am quite proud of it for both sentimental and performance reasons, said Davidson.
The overnight event is designed to bring together those touched by cancer in a community. It is a night that celebrates survivors with an opening survivor’s victory lap. There is also a luminaria lap that honors those who lost their fights with cancer.
The event also marks National Cancer Survivors Day, which was June 3.
`The American Cancer Society is devoted to serving as a resource for cancer survivors, their caregivers, family and friends, and offers a variety of programs to support individuals throughout their cancer experience. We join the 10.5 million cancer survivors in observing Cancer Survivors Day as a celebration of life,` said Terry Music, national vice president of health promotions at the American Cancer Society.
The goal for the teams during the overnight walk is to keep at least one member of their team on the track at all times.
Davidson said over the past four years, Scotia-Glenville has raised a quarter of a million dollars, and it’s expected they will raise an additional $100,000 this year.
`Scotia is somewhat like my baby as far as being involved with the relays. The response each year has grown and never ceases to amaze me,` said Davidson.
Davidson said the teams are made up of businesses, benevolent groups and primarily families who have lost someone to cancer.
Just last April, Davidson’s cousin Beth died of cancer, making this year that much more personal.
`The relay makes people like me and my family feel empowered,` said Davidson.
Other local relays include those in Queensbury, Saratoga Springs, Clifton Park, Colonie, Voorheesville, Gloversville and Hudson. Scotia-Glenville’s race will be held June 15. To find out how you can get involved by walking or donating, visit www.kintera.org or e-mail Davidson at [email protected].“