The Lawrence County Relay for Life kicks off Friday evening, with more than 250 area residents expected at the Dawson-Bryant High School track.

Thursday, May 03, 2001

The Lawrence County Relay for Life kicks off Friday evening, with more than 250 area residents expected at the Dawson-Bryant High School track.

A reception for cancer survivors begins at 5:30 p.m., with pre-relay festivities slated for 6:45 p.m.

"It’s really a celebration for them, and then they start off the relay with the Victory Lap," said Brenda Haas, co-chair for the relay with Janet Walker-Jones.

The "Victory Lap" is the first lap, and it’s taken by those who have survived their ordeals with the killer disease. It starts at 7 p.m.

Teams of walkers stand by and cheer, then join in the walking – and fund-raising – on the next lap around.

"We’re trying to get awareness of the American Cancer Society’s programs that are available for cancer survivors and families," Mrs. Haas said.

The walkers help raise money for the society’s efforts there, in services it provides to schools and, of course, the research it funds, she said.

"We want people to come out, come together as a Lawrence County community, and work for a good cause."

There will be entertainment all night long, and many of the 27 teams signed up will feature special treats or activities. There are teams of walkers featuring schools, civic clubs, church groups and businesses.

Anyone can just show up, walk and donate, especially during the Luminaria Services, Mrs. Haas said.

As darkness settles over the relay about 9 p.m., participants will take a moment to remember those who have lost the fight against cancer, honor those still fighting the disease or celebrate with those who have conquered the disease by a donation purchase of a luminaria that will burn brightly along the track.

Friday entertainment includes the Pride Team at 10:30 p.m., Southern Thunder at 11 p.m. and Blue Ash at midnight. Leah Conley, Aaron Fields, other singers and karaoke round out the wee morning hours, with Silly Team Olympics at 5:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. Saturday.

Jazzercise and Early Morning Stretch will begin at 6:30 a.m. Soul Cafe will perform at 10:30-11:30 a.m. Presentation of awards by committee members will be at 11:45 a.m.

All participants will follow that ceremony with the final lap of the relay just before noon – the end of the 17-hour event.

For more information, contact the American Cancer Society’s Ohio unit at 1-888-227-6446.