Beech Tree News Network

Butler County held its 13th annual “Relay for Life” on Friday, May 4, and raised over $18,000 to aid in the battle against cancer.  Rachel Johnson, Bailey Hunt, Lennon Johnson, and Allison Kurfiss kicked off the event with the singing of the National Anthem, while members of Butler County High School’s JROTC did the presentation of the colors. 

Co-chair Becky Hankins introduced the Relay Committee that consisted of many people who contributed to the organization of the event.  The members of the 2012 committee were Becky Hankins, Kenna Martin, Tiffany Winchel, Shirley Allen, Sue Morris, Connie Hatcher, Patty Stuckwish, Tammy Suggs, Kimberlea Embry, Mark Embry, Jessica Johnson, and Angie Geron.

This year’s speaker was cancer survivor Tina Martin Porter.  She spoke about her battle with breast cancer, and the importance of early detection and a strong support system when dealing with the disease.  Porter told the audience, “The hardest part of being diagnosed is telling your family, especially your children. I was not the only one facing this battle, but my children too. They needed a strong support system to rely on”.  According to Porter “All most breast cancer patients want is hope.” She has been given hope along with a community that cares.

Shirley Allen and Sue Morris honored cancer survivors present with the help of Maggie Dotson and Delaney Embry.  There were 31 cancer survivors presented with medals.  Many laps were made around the gym by cancer survivors, their caregivers, and other relay for life participants to honor the struggle and success of those battling the disease.  

Later in the night, other activities took place around the gym such as hillbilly wheel barrow races, egg tosses, an obstacle course, and bobbing for apples. Various types of food and snacks such as polish sausage, homemade desserts, and lemon shake ups were available at the many booths set up by the Relay for Life teams. There were also several themed baskets that could be bid on throughout the night.  

Performances from Resurrection Bound and Hollow Drive kept the crowd entertained while they visited booths and participated in the different activities. 

Later in the night, The Luminaria Ceremony lit up the gymnasium. Names were read in memory of cancer patients as well as in honor of those who have survived. Tiffany Winchel and Hannah Embry both sang during the ceremony of remembrance.

Hankins was very pleased with the turnout and said “I’m so happy to see the community come out and support the American Cancer Society. I know how devastating the diagnosis of cancer is, and I think it helps all cancer survivors to have the support and love that we find at Relay for Life.”

Early Saturday morning, it was announced that over $18,000 was raised.  This money will be used for cancer research in hopes of finding a cure.