Stores Support Relay for Life Gatherings
If you've had a family member or friend or coworker who has been affected by cancer, you are likely familiar with the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.
Relays are community gatherings where many people join to fight cancer. Teams of people camp out for 24 hours, taking turns walking or running around a track or path. Beyond the symbolism of being on the track 24 hours, since cancer never rests, the teams compete to raise money. The money supports cancer research, services, advocacy and education.
When the sun goes down, hundreds of luminarias light the way to remember those who lost to cancer, those fighting cancer and those who have defeated cancer. The ceremony of light symbolizes the hope and perseverence with which we fight this dreadful disease. Listen to the roll call: you may be surprised at familiar names.
Our stores have long been supporters of Relays in their community, and this year is no different. We will be participating in some Relays, donating refreshments and also raising money in our stores. You can help us defeat cancer by donating $1 or $5 at our checkstands to purchase a sun or moon card. The money goes entirely to the Cancer Society, and you are encouraged to write down the name of someone affected by cancer.
Our store teams have been raising money through a variety of ways, and will be present at Relays this summer. If you're in the area, please stop by. Like all of us, you will be moved by the community effort, by the faces of your friends and neighbors, and the determination to make a difference that characterizes the Relays.
Our Relay participation this year includes:
Grant/S. Adams County: Moses Lake Food Pavilion May 29
Skagit County: Mt. Vernon/Sedro Woolley Food Pavilion June 6
Lynden: Lynden Food Pavilion June 19
Whatcom County: The Market, Cost Cutter, Food Pavilion July 10
Selah: Selah $ave-On-Food$ August 1
To learn more about the work of the American Cancer Society and the Relays, go to www.cancer.org