News
Another successful year for ACS
Relay For Life
On May 2 and 3, Medina County residents at the 10th
Annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life walked or ran to raise funds for
cancer research and patient services. “As of Tuesday morning, after the relay,
we had deposits of $118,097 before expenses and more is still coming in”, said
Relay Treasurer Sandy Wilson. “Medina County is amazing”.
“Medina County residents really showed their spirit
this weekend,” said Becky and Robert Byerly, volunteer chairs for the 2008
American Cancer Society Relay For Life. “Exactly 200 cancer survivors
registered and several others showed up to participate as well. It was very
touching and emotional for all of us.”
Relay For Life, the Society’s signature event, is a life-changing experience
that helps us celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember
loved ones lost and to fight back against a disease that takes too much. This
unforgettable event raises awareness and funds to save lives, help those touched
by cancer, and empower people to fight back against this disease.
In the past 23 years, funds raised from Relay For Life
has helped the American Cancer Society save lives through expanding research,
provided greater access to cancer information, passed legislation to protect
public health and provided access to health care, and offered programs and
services to cancer patients and their families.
The top fundraising team was Lytle State Bank/Life
Saving Buddies who brought in over $10,400 as a team. The other top fundraising
teams announced at the relay were: St. Paul Lutheran Stars, McDowell Girls
Athletics, Hondo National Bank, Devine News, Community National Bank,
Medina Valley State Bank, Charlie’s Angels, City of Hondo, and Medina County
Abstract The Wild Bunch.
More than 1080 people participated - split into 54
teams. The teams represented area businesses, clubs, families and organizations.
Mrs. Byerly said that money raised in the 2008 Relay
For Life will be used to speed up the search for new weapons to fight cancer.
“We are at a loss for words! The awesome participation from Medina County at
this year’s Relay makes our hearts soar like eagles. We are so proud of our
community working so hard for a cause that provides HOPE for those who are
battling this dreadful disease,” said Becky and Robert Byerly. Lisa Rothe who
walked 100 laps as part of the Wild Bunch Team, said she was able to walk 100
laps again this year for the fourth year. She enjoys being a part of such a
great cause.
American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Medina County
was made possible by all the generous sponsors and faithful participants.
Survivor E.J. Williams won the rocking chair donated by
the Byerly’s in honor of Becky’s dad and brother they lost to cancer. The
winner of the Relay Committee quilt drawing was Lindsey Fernandez of Natalia.
The picnic table was won by Michelle Bailey of Hondo. Many other great prizes
were given away during the Relay. We will release the names and sponsors as they
become available.
“We would like to extend a big thank you to all who
helped with the Relay, the teams, the survivors, those who donated to it,
participated in it, joined in, and everyone who took care of all the little
details. Without you all and people like David Cardenas and the Devine ISD
staff, the event wouldn’t be so successful”, said Relay Team Chair Sandy
Jopling.
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating
cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and
preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in
1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional
Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of
volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll
free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.
