Community invited to participate in Relay for Life at UVa-Wise July 18-19

The fifth annual Wise County Relay for Life, an all-night fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, begins Friday, July 18, at Carl Smith Stadium at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise. The community is invited to participate and raise money to find a cure for cancer.

The event begins at 6 p.m. with the annual cancer survivor walk. An illumination service in memory of cancer victims and in honor of cancer survivors begins at 10 p.m. The relay continues through 6 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, and ends with a “Celebration, Remember, Fight Back” ceremony.

During the fundraiser, at least one member from each of the 24 teams will walk around the track the entire time.

The Cavs for a Cure team at UVa-Wise has participated in Relay for Life since it began five years ago. Jo Stewart with the Office of Alumni Relations chairs the team this year.

“We have a great team that works tirelessly,” Stewart said. “We have had quite a variety of fundraisers.”

The team began raising money last fall and has raised more than $6,000 thus far. The roster includes Renay Balthis, Pat Bevins, Gina Chisenhall, Pam Collie, Jennifer Elks, Crystal Fleming, Tammie Hale, Jo Anne Harding, Susan Herron, Peggy Johnson, Sydney Johnson, Katherine Lane, Vada Lawson, Francene Meade, Linda Meade, Teresa Mutter, Laura Pritchard, Irene Robinson, Steven Sproles, Jo Stewart and Debbie Vanover.

For more information, contact Jo Stewart at 276-328-0128.

Posted July 15, 2008