The purple ribbons could be seen fastened to a variety of locations throughout the city for the past few weeks, marking the countdown to the annual Relay for Life event. This past weekend Colton High School hosted the cancer walk for its 15th year from 8:30 am on Saturday, April 27 to 9:00 am on Sunday, April 28, 2019.
The event began with the open ceremonies, which kick off the event by honoring everyone who's been affected by cancer and everyone who has contributed to the success of this year's Relay season, according to the Relay for Life event details.
Following the survivor introduction and presentation of the National Anthem, the relay began! Specific hours throughout the day marked the laps of certain groups, including a survivor lap featuring the Grand Terrace Girl Scouts and CHS Band and Flag Squad, military lap featuring the Grand Terrace Legacy Regiment Drumline, first responders lap and more.
Once it was dark enough, at around 9 pm, the Relay for Life participants brought light to the darkness, just as they have for the past 15 years.
The Luminaria ceremony, according to the Relay for Life foundation, “represents everyone touched by cancer with a Luminaria. Each light represents a life—a life taken by cancer, a survivor of cancer, or a support for a person still fighting the disease. It's a powerful demonstration that gives people the opportunity to grieve but also offers comfort and hope.”
The high school’s football stands were glowing with the words “15 Years,” as participants of the walk were issued glow sticks and other items to help bring light to the night.
This years relay had 59 teams walking the track. They honored 200 cancer survivors and there were at least 4,000 visitors who walked through the gates. As of now we as a community have raised $102,619.00, our goal is $120,000.00 and teams and the community can still donate to help reach their goal.
Activities commenced throughout the night, including more themed laps and music. The relay finally came to an end on Sunday morning with a closing ceremony to give the participants one final celebration for all they accomplished and to commit to continuing to take action and never give up the fight.