Support the fighters, admire the survivors, and honor the taken, that was the key message at the Relay For Life.

On Friday, April 6, more than 25 Cotter students participated in the Relay for Life event hosted by Winona State University. The funds of the Relay support the American cancer Society.

The annual event starts with the testimonies of cancer survivors or are in the process of treatment and recovery.  After the opening ceremony, the survivors and the fighters of cancer started with the first lap of the relay walk. Then after the second lap, people started walking around the gym to show support and to express solitary.

Although the word “cancer” might sound depressing, the Relay for Life is a fun celebration. It shows that cancer is an obstacle, but with the help of others,  people can live strong lives despite their diagnosis as researchers continue to look for more effective treatments.

The gym was filled with different stages with different types of food and games. From walking tacos and ice cream, to margaritas. There was one stage in particular with the most people in it, which was based in trowing a plate of whipped cream to a college student of your preference.

The Relay, also had a lot of games that were non profit. Including Jenga, (with giant pieces of wood) and chicken wings eating contest, to see who could eat more in a short period of time. The winners of every game received a gift car or a Relay t-shirt.

The Relay also played joyful music for people to go in the middle and dance, or just dance where you were at. When the DJ played the “The cupid shuffle” everybody was found in the middle dancing right and left.

After these festivities, the light ceremony called for everybody to sit down to honor the people who had passed away. They showed a slide show with people of all the ages. then people started walking around the gym with the lights off during a moment of silence.

After the light ceremony the Relay continue until 3:00 a.m. showing that people with cancer never rest.