Weather Could Not Delay the Relay

Uncertainty of the weather provided an unfortunate start to this year's Relay for Life. The opening ceremony began at 6 p.m. with a survivor's lap honoring those who have won the battle with cancer. Participants were warned that if the storm did come, they would move into the Cordt's Center, but luckily, the rain held off until around 1 a.m. The heavy rain throughout the week caused the ground to be too soft for the tents' spikes to secure firmly to the ground, causing many teams to periodically fix their tents.

The most somber part of Relay for Life is the Luminaria Ceremony, remembering those who have been affected by cancer. Each luminaria holds the name of someone who has battled cancer, and are lit around the track in honor of loved ones. The bags were filled with sand and candles by the Kappa Beta Gamma sorority. Unfortunately, due to the high winds, they went unlit for the ceremony. KBG member Briana Bronson loved helping with relay because "I got to hang out with my awesome sisters, even though it was freezing." Tosin Fadeyi adds, "Relay is about walking for a good cause, helping those who are helpless, while still having fun, and celebrating those who made it."

One of the teams recognized for raising the most money was FSU's Echo Stars. Team leader Kathleen May is glad she could participate in Relay for Life. She says, "I love walking to find a cure and hopefully making differences in the lives of others."

An entertainment highlight of the evening was the Miss Relay Competition. Six male students dressed up as women in evening wear, performed a talent, and collected donations throughout the night. The "ladies" raised over $700 for the American Cancer Society. This year's Miss Relay title went to Misty Valentine, better known as the Economics Club President Logan Marks. "Misty" raised $230 dollars, donated by relay participates. ECON club member Khrystine Bunche enjoyed "raising money for a good cause while having fun with friends."

Many relay participants left after the rain started, but for others, the weather could not stop their support. The 61 teams raised over $50,000 for this year's event, making a total donation of $265,000 in the past 10 years. Nearly 900 people came out to support and participate in Relay for Life. For those who could not make it this year, make plans to attend next year's event.