Relay for Life – Bonners Ferry
- Steve Russo
- Jun 20, 2014
- 3 min read
Remembering and honoring those who have fought the battle. By Patty Hutchens.
They are the three words that can turn one’s life upside down in an instant. “You’ve got cancer.” Unfortunately, they are words uttered all too often. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2014 there will be an estimated 1,665,540 new cancer cases diagnosed and 585,720 cancer deaths in the United States alone; ranking cancer as the second most common cause of death in the US and accounting for nearly 1 of every 4 deaths. As disheartening as those statistics are, the good news is that there is hope, and people across the world are doing their part to help make a difference.
Every year communities worldwide participate in the Relay for Life, a gathering of community members that form teams and walk for up to 24 hours straight, raising money to help support cancer research and providing additional funds for programs that help increase the quality of life for those battling cancer.
But the event is much more than a fundraiser. It raises awareness and offers hope as well as honors those who have survived the horrific disease and an opportunity to remember those who were not as fortunate.
Kicking off each Relay for Life event is the Survivors’ Lap – those who have battled cancer and won the fight are honored as they walk around the track united in their common journey. It is proof to others that the battle against cancer can be and is won every day.
After the sun sets, there is a ceremony of hope as luminaria bags, often decorated by participants, are placed around the track and candles are lit to honor survivors and to remember those who have passed away. A solemn event, it is a Relay for Life tradition that is a favorite of many.
This is the first year that Bonners Ferry will host a Relay for Life event. Bonners Ferry resident Tamra Hiatt is the Relay chairperson. She initiated the effort after being involved in the Relay in Wenatchee, WA. “I was surprised we did not have one here in Bonners Ferry,” said Hiatt. But when an American Cancer Society representative addressed the Bonners Ferry Chamber of Commerce, Tamra decided to take on the task of bringing the Relay for Life to this small North Idaho town.
There are already 15 teams registered. The number of participants on each team currently ranges from 7 to 20 people. “Teams have already raised $5000,” said Hiatt. The event will take place from Friday August 22nd-23rd at the Bonners Ferry High School track.
While the money raised goes to the American Cancer Society, something many do not realize is that the American Cancer Society’s programs are alive and well and doing much to support those with cancer right here in Bonners Ferry and throughout North Idaho.
According to Hiatt, there are many people from Boundary County who access American Cancer Society funds to assist with overnight stays while traveling to chemotherapy, radiation and other medical appointments in Coeur d’Alene and Spokane. There is also Community Cancer Services in Sandpoint, a non-profit organization that provides emotional and financial support for residents of Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry who are battling cancer, which also utilizes funds from the American Cancer Society to support local residents.
Hiatt encourages everyone to come together and enjoy the event while also helping their fellow community members fight the battle with which so many are afflicted.
For more information, log onto www.relayforlife.org/bonnersferryid. Next month read about the various fundraising efforts by Bonners Ferry Relay for Life teams and how you can help make a difference!
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