Local kids raised money for cancer research last weekend by holding a local version of the national “Relay for Life” in which they walked around a football field and conducted other activities for 24 hours.
They raised more than $19,000 for the American Cancer Society, a worldwide non-profit organization that helps educate the community about cancer, raises funds for cancer research, and advocates for those struggling with the disease.
“It humbles you, this shows others it’s not boring to help others.” – Adrian Rosado
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“I am a cancer survivor,” said teacher Shane Harnett at the event. “I worked in the automotive industry for many years, but always wanted to teach. I started working at Union Hill High School then came to [Union City High School]. Relay was a perfect way to bring together two schools that have been rivals.”
Both schools merged two years ago into the new Union City High School.
“Last year we raised $17,600, and a little over $19,000 this year,” said Harnett. “We had former seniors from last year return this year. We hope it’ll turn into a reunion thing where kids from previous years get together. The more we get the community involved, this will get better. We hope to get local schools in town to participate.”
Toons unite
The theme this year was “Toon out cancer,” referring to cartoons.
“We are the roadrunners,” said student Heidi Luna. “We chose the roadrunner because the coyote is cancer and we are the roadrunner running away from cancer. My friend told me about this event.”
Anita Nedswick is a volunteer at local Special Olympic events. She was invited by her friends, the Concepcion family, to participate and share her stories after losing her mother-in-law and co-worker to cancer.
“We always donated to the cancer society,” said father Ruben Concepcion. “When my daughter took an interest, we switched our focus to this.”
“Mr. Harnett introduced [Relay for Life] to the class,” said student Kira Concepcion. “You meet people and have a long lasting bond here. We fundraised at a local Walmart and also raised awareness about cancer. I won last year an individual trophy for fundraising and am leading this year.”
Adrian Rosado, who was scheduled to take the SAT early in the morning, said: “It humbles you. This shows others it’s not boring to help others. For fundraising, we bought candy and drinks and sold it to family and friends. I am part of Team Tazmaniacs and Team Teen Heroes.”
Some teams merged to one group since each team had to have a chaperone if they stayed overnight. Teams were required to raise $150 per member in order to spend the night on the school field.
Individual team members walked the perimeter of the field, changing hourly in order to keep each member rested and active in the activities.
In your memory
Early in the day, students, staff, and community members shared stories during the Luminary Ceremony. During the ceremony, people wrote the names of others who have died or survived cancer on a paper bag and placed a glow stick inside so it would be lit at night. That way, people could see the names and remember the stories they have heard or have told about cancer.
“The moment you’re diagnosed with cancer, you’re a survivor,” said Diane Berry, senior director of special events for the American Cancer Society. “This event is new to the community. The returning students knew what to expect this year and the emotional connection. The kids stay up all night. This provides great leadership experiences.”
Santo Sanabria may be reached at SSanabria@hudsonreporter.com.