By KATE PIERCE
News Editor
Students are lighting the way to Relay for Life with an event held by Colleges Against Cancer called “Illuminate Life.”
Paper bags and markers were used to create luminaria in memory of people who have passed away from or are currently battling cancer. The luminaria will be on display around the quad for the Saint Rose Relay for Life on April 28.
“In a way, we’re keeping their light shining,” said Sarah Franzken, the luminary chair for CAC.
At sunset that Friday, a luminaria ceremony will take place to honor and remember those touched by cancer.
“It enlightens everyone that cancer affects a lot of people,” said Franzken.
The lighting of the luminaria was especially emotional for freshman Alex Hitrick when he attended a Relay at his high school last year.
“You see that people are there for each other,” said Hitrick. He highly encourages students to attend the Saint Rose Relay this April.
“Be aware of it,” he said. “It’s a great thing to do.”
Relays are held around the country to support the American Cancer Society. The mission of Relay for Life is to bring communities together to remember loved ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers and raise donations to help the Society to find a cure.
“Everyone is affected by cancer,” said Megan Scaccia, treasurer for CAC.“Even if you haven’t been affected personally you know someone who has.”
Donations at Relay for Life events help to fund cancer research studies and education and prevention initiatives. The money raised at Relay also goes to several different programs, including Road to Recovery, which provides rides to treatment for patients; Hope Lodge, where families can stay while their loved ones are receiving treatment nearby; and Look Good Feel Better, which helps women with cancer with wigs and makeup.
“It’s important to band together,” said Scaccia. “Also getting involved in the campus community is important.”
In the coming weeks leading up to Relay there will be more opportunities to get involved and donate, including “Relay Bingo.”
“Join the fight to end cancer, because with more people it’s more possible to find a cure,” said Franzken.
