News
ENLARGE
TRUCKEE, Calif. — The day was hot, the sun strong, as is the Truckee community's commitment to Relay for Life, the 24-hour cancer walk. Survivors in purple, friends, family, teens and elders took part in the American Cancer Society event, raising a total (to date) of $56,000 less expenses through donations, crafts, baked goods, games and raffle sales.
I attended as Sierra Sun Community Editor: I left as smoke-free Amy Edgett. Two things made me nervous: Sneaking away to huff a butt and my first Cover It Live for the Sun. Could I make it? Professionally? Personally? Yes.
One purple T-shirted survivor reminded me to pray, to pray and pray to God take the addiction away. I thought if this gentle, handsome man, who has battled the beastie c-word, can speak of my addiction so selflessly, I owe it to myself, my son, heck everyone, to quit.
I signed the Fight Back pledge as many did: Quit smoking, wear sunscreen, eat healthy foods to combat the dreadful disease.
As dusk crept over the Truckee High track and field, more and more walkers joined the fight, circling the track in groups, in tandem and alone. The Chick P's, an all-female band belted out ballads, a trio of young girls brought tears to my eyes with bittersweet strains of “Amazing Grace,” a reading of luminaria names in memory of those who lost the battle and honor to those still struggling was a forlorn testament to cancer's presence in our community.
A solemn, silent lap was made, more than 750 luminarias shone forth a message of hope in the night. Just like the Grateful Dead sang: “We Will Survive.” After, the Deckheads rocked the joint, floodlights flipped on and the walkers continued all night: Perseverance prevailed.
Morning brought the Truckee Fire District volunteers flipping pancakes to feed weary, satisfied walkers and workers. The event closed with figures announced and thanks given. I would like to thank Truckee Relay for Life for their continued good work and a new lease on life. I quit!
I attended as Sierra Sun Community Editor: I left as smoke-free Amy Edgett. Two things made me nervous: Sneaking away to huff a butt and my first Cover It Live for the Sun. Could I make it? Professionally? Personally? Yes.
One purple T-shirted survivor reminded me to pray, to pray and pray to God take the addiction away. I thought if this gentle, handsome man, who has battled the beastie c-word, can speak of my addiction so selflessly, I owe it to myself, my son, heck everyone, to quit.
I signed the Fight Back pledge as many did: Quit smoking, wear sunscreen, eat healthy foods to combat the dreadful disease.
As dusk crept over the Truckee High track and field, more and more walkers joined the fight, circling the track in groups, in tandem and alone. The Chick P's, an all-female band belted out ballads, a trio of young girls brought tears to my eyes with bittersweet strains of “Amazing Grace,” a reading of luminaria names in memory of those who lost the battle and honor to those still struggling was a forlorn testament to cancer's presence in our community.
A solemn, silent lap was made, more than 750 luminarias shone forth a message of hope in the night. Just like the Grateful Dead sang: “We Will Survive.” After, the Deckheads rocked the joint, floodlights flipped on and the walkers continued all night: Perseverance prevailed.
Morning brought the Truckee Fire District volunteers flipping pancakes to feed weary, satisfied walkers and workers. The event closed with figures announced and thanks given. I would like to thank Truckee Relay for Life for their continued good work and a new lease on life. I quit!
Relay forLife
Top teams (online and offline donations) Citizens United: $7,000.30
Walking in Tahoe For Lives: $5,915
Team Mc3Dee: $5,295.40
Walking for Betsy and Others: $4,434.50
Team Imagine: $4,262
Top individuals (online and offline donations)
Ginger Taylor: $2,291
Robin Mills: $1,450
Christine Madden: $1,326
Nancy Brolliar: $1,110
Mary Ellen Costa: $1,045
Make a donation today
You can still donate to the Relay For Life of Truckee until Aug. 31 for it to count towards this year's goal. Donate online at www.relayforlife.org/truckeeca or mail checks into American Cancer Society, RFL Truckee, 1765 Challenge Way, Suite 115, Sacramento, CA 95815.
