GREENFIELD — Led by four flag-carrying Marines, cancer survivors kicked off Greenfield’s 23rd annual Relay for Life with a lap around the track at the fairgrounds to the cheers of supportive spectators.
After an opening ceremony and a large dinner sponsored by local restaurants, survivors and those currently affected by cancer filled the track for the first lap of a long night. Convertible cars and Jeeps carried people who could no longer walk the track.
“It’s an event to signify we’re here for them,” said Chris Luippold, one of the event organizers.
For the second lap, caregivers took to the track. After survivors and caregivers walked, each local Relay for Life team fell in line. Team members took turns walking around the track to symbolize the fight against cancer.
“We just started (at 6 p.m.) and we don’t stop until 3 p.m. tomorrow,” Luippold said.
Relay for Life is an international event where participants take turns walking around a track to show support for those who have been affected by cancer, and to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Since the event was first created in 1985, more than $4 billion has been raised.
Participants go all night to symbolize that cancer doesn’t rest. When not walking, people visit team campsites to chat, play games and participate in activities while learning how to be a better advocate for the American Cancer Society. These campsites also help teams continue fundraising by collecting donations for food, games and activities. This money will count toward their overall team fundraising goal.
The tents also serve for resting spots if someone wishes to take a break from walking or take a nap.
Luippold said that there will be themed laps on Saturday, with some people in costume. This year’s theme is board games.
After sunset, participants light luminaries to commemorate those who lost their battle with cancer, as well as show support for those still fighting to let them know they are not alone.
On Saturday morning, closing ceremonies will take place. Event volunteers and community members will be recognized for their work
Ann Hawkes sat under the “Campers Against Cancer” team tent with a bright yellow team shirt. She’s been the team captain for 19 years and is a cancer survivor herself.
Hawkes expressed excitement that each year, during the relay, her team grows larger.
Hawkes’ daughter, Kim Mckenzie, is co-captain of the team. Not only did her mother survive a battle with cancer, but her father did, too.
“We just have to keep fighting, keep earning what we can,” she said.
She admits that, for many, the event is not without sorrow, despite its positive outlook.
“We remember those we’ve lost, too,” she said. “It’s hard to get through that sadness. We have to really keep the positivity and just really keep hoping for the cure.”