Relayers to "Fight Back" Against Cancer

Gerry Herman, a cancer survivor, shares his reasons to Relay on his "Fight Back" poster for 2015. Photo courtesy of Unforgettable Photos, Manchester.

"Celebrate ... Remember ... Fight Back" is the motto of Relay For Life. And in Manchester, Relayers do all three of these things very well.

To "Celebrate," Relay For Life of Manchester, coordinates a sumptuous brunch for cancer survivors and caregivers, following a celebratory lap around the track to kick off the day's activities. All Manchester-area cancer survivors, as well as their caregivers, are welcomed to participate in these two special activities.

As the Relay continues, the "Remember" segment is an integral part of the luminaria lap that begins at dusk (10 p.m.). Cancer victims as well as those who are survivors are remembered with lit candles in decorated bags that line the track at the Manchester High School Athletic Complex, while the names of all those remembered are read aloud and participants walk the track silently.

The "Fighting Back" ceremony happens mid-day and will include a number of survivors and their caregivers who talk candidly about why they participate in Relay For Life. Vinyl posters, donated by Mary Bortmas of Unforgettable Photos, are presented to each of these participants who are willing to speak out about the importance of the funds raised by Relay For Life. This is the third year of the "Fight Back" ceremony and during that time, more than 25 participants have made this part of their Relay tradition.

Please visit one of these moving ceremonies or any other time during the Relay For Life of Manchester, from 10 a.m to midnight this Saturday, June 20. Everyone is invited to this community-wide event. There is no admission fee and any donations made go directly to the American Cancer Society to advance research toward a cure for cancer and support for programs that help cancer patients and their families or caregivers.

Relay For Life of Manchester will take place at the Manchester High School Athletic Complex beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 20, and ending at midnight. Survivor Brunch begins at 11 a.m., and the Luminaria lap begins at 10 a.m. A variety of family-oriented activities and a silent auction will be ongoing throughout the day. The public is welcome. 

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.