United in fight against cancer

Published 10:17 pm Wednesday, April 8, 2009

By By MaryClaire Foster
In support of cancer survivors and fighters, the city of Atmore has come together through the efforts of Relay for Life to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.
Atmore’s Relay for Life Director Deborah Camp said even after 11 years of participating in the organization, support for it continues to grow.
This year there are 20 Relay teams in the community, with each having individual fundraisers. The main Relay event for the year is Relay Day, which will be held on April 18, and according to Camp is recognized throughout the state’s Relay community as being one of the best events.
According to the Relay for Life Web site, Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature activity. Teams of people camp out at a local spot that offers a track or path and every team is asked to have a representative on the track the entire event, which can be up to a full 24 hours.
Atmore’s Relay for Life goal is $69,000 for the year and fundraising began in the fall and will continue until August.
Becky Ganey, co-chair of Atmore Relay for Life, said the community has responded really well to the Relay fundraising efforts.
Camp added that she sometimes hears criticism that funds raised through Relay do not stay in the community, but she disagrees.
Upcoming Relay for Life events include an Easter bake sale at Atmore Nursing Center beginning at 8 a.m. on April 10 and Relay Day beginning at noon on April 18. Check in The Atmore Advance’s community calendar for other upcoming events.

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