The 2010 American Cancer Society Relay for Life has kicked off in Hempstead County with a new ambition.
Stina Brown, area American Cancer Society representative, said the goal for the relay is bigger this year.
“Our goal last year in Hempstead County was $57,000, and we raised $60,000,” Brown said. “This year’s goal is $60,000, and I’m sure we can meet or exceed that, too. We have a great bunch of people in Hempstead County.”
Last year, there were 25 teams who participated in the Relay for Life, and this year the goal is 30 or more, according to Brown. The event will be held on the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope campus on May 21-22, beginning at 6 p.m., and the theme for this year is “Fiesta of Hope.”
A survivor’s reception will be held at 4:30 p.m. at the UACCH Student Center.
Brown has been with the American Cancer Society for three years and appreciates everyone’s efforts to make the Relay for Life a special event.
“We don’t have a support group here, but there is an ‘800’ number that people can call for support. We have several different avenues of help for cancer survivors also,” Brown said. “The ‘Look Good-Feel Better’ program involves a licensed cosmetologist assisting with wigs, makeup, and makeovers. There is not a charge to the cosmetologist and the program makes cancer survivors feel 100 percent better, in my experience, anyway.
“There is also a program called ‘Reach to Recovery,’ where cancer survivors are provided free wigs, prostheses, and support,” she said. “If there is anyone who would like to help with either of these programs, call 1-800227-2345, and someone will give you information.
“We would like everyone to come out and participate in the Relay for Life this year. Early detection is your best protection, and we want everyone to celebrate another birthday.”
Bertha Miller, Steve Lance, and Herbert Ross were among many who visited the Relay for Life Community Coffee last week. The Relay for Life is scheduled for May 21-22 at UACCH, and promises to be bigger and better than last year, according to Stina Brown, ACS representative for Southwest Arkansas. PHOTO BY STINA BROWN
