Jacksonville Mayor Gary Fletcher on Monday proclaimed May 13 and 14 to be Relay for Life days in the city.
The annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society will take place on those days at Jacksonville High School’s Jan Crow Stadium.
The event promotes awareness of cancer and brings survivors of the disease together. Proceeds will fund cancer research.
This year’s theme is “Celebrate Every Day Like a Holiday.” The Relay for Life will begin at 6 p.m. May 13 with a survivor ceremony, and end at 6 a.m. May 14. Luminaria will be held at 9 p.m. May 13.
Anyone who wants to make a luminaria donation or form a team may call Penny Wells, the event chairwoman, at 501-988-4014 or visit relayforlife.org/jacksonvillear. Each candle is $10.
“The luminaria ceremony is a moving way to remember loved ones lost to cancer and to pay tribute to cancer survivors,” she said.
Before the luminaria ceremony, the survivors’ lap will kick off the 2011 Relay For Life event in Jacksonville at 6 p.m. May 13 as survivors will circle the track, surrounded by friends and family cheering them on.
Also a part of Jacksonville’s Relay For Life event is the “Fight Back” Ceremony, in which a community leader will inspire participants with his or her own commitment and will challenge them to take a personal pledge of action (e.g., stop smoking, eat more healthily, exercise regularly) in fighting back.
This year celebrates the 26th anniversary of Relay for Life and Jacksonville’s 12th year to hold a rally.
Last year, Jacksonville Relay for Life raised more than $40,000 through donations and the purchase of 250 luminarias with the names of those who have battled cancer over the years.
