Relay for Life Gurnee/Wadsworth, IL

So,last Saturday night the communities of Gurnee and Wadsworth once again came out in force to celebrate another successful Relay for Life. This is a homecoming of sorts for so many people each year. By my last count there were well over 70 teams participating and many more who volunteered in one way or another. At last count, they had not reached their goal dollar-wise, but donations are still being accepted into August.

Many of the people sharing their time, are friends and acquaintances that come out like myself to honor the ones who have had cancer or to remember the loved ones we have lost. Either way- the number are far too many!

Seeing the survivor lap in the opening ceremony and luminaria with glowing lights around the track or in the bleachers will choke anyone up. If that was not emotional enough, when the looping footage of all who have been touched by cancer appears on the big screen, the love and strength are palpable as everyone continues to walk in the darkness and charged silence.

I was just a lightweight this year in the volunteer department, because of the impending birth of my granddaughter. I worked the accounting tent for awhile, donated some money, and walked for a bit on the track, but being part of this amazing event for even a little bit makes me feel part of the effort and so proud of my neighbors and friends.

This year the RFL was headed by Heidi May, Samantha May, and Megan Kile. They did an awesome job!! Hot as it almost always is, the Warren Township High School athletic field (Home Sweet Home), the weather held for the 12 hour walk. Lightening, dark clouds, and humidity, was all-around Gurnee, but above the track not a cloud in sight. It was wonderful!

Entertainment, silent auctions, and lots of donated food to feed the masses, it was a feel good night for all! A time to give, to meet with friends, and exercise those muscles does not seem like an obligation, but an honor instead. Next year, I will be there for the whole thing as we all work again to eliminate cancer forever. Until next time...