PORT ANGELES — For Christy McHone Casey, the Relay for Life is about more than just raising money to help with cancer research and education.
It’s also something of a symbolic act, said the chairwoman of the Relay for Life of Clallam County at Port Angeles whose husband, Ron, had a polyp removed last year.
Hundreds of cancer survivors and their friends and family members will turn out tonight at the Clallam County Fairgrounds for the 24-hour march, the signature event of the American Cancer Society.
“Cancer doesn’t sleep,” Casey said. “Neither will we.”
The Relay for Life starts at 6 p.m. and runs, or walks, until 6 p.m. Saturday.
45 teams signed up
About 45 teams averaging 12 to 15 people have signed up, she said, along with a team from the Independent Bible Church weighing in with about 150 members.
Organizers hope to raise $120,000 from donations and corporate sponsors, Casey said.
That’s the “realistic goal,” she said, noting that the relay’s committee is shooting for $200,000, twice what was raised at last year’s event.
“That’s our hidden mission,” Casey said.
In addition to music, dancing and other entertainment, the highlight of the event is the luminaria ceremony, during which paper bags are anchored to the ground with sand and left with a burning candle inside.
The glowing paper lanterns memorialize those who are fighting cancer and those who have died, she said.
The ceremony is accompanied by a period of silence and reflection, which gives the event a solemn feeling.
“It’s something you will remember for the rest of your life,” Casey said.
The ceremony is open to all and begins at 11 p.m. today.
The money comes from corporate sponsors, who donate cash or in-kind services, and team members, who solicit donations or hold fundraisers such as car washes and bake sales.