Relay For Life benefit fast approching

The 12-hour non-competitive cancer fund raiser, "Relay For Life," begins with opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. July 11 and continues until 6 a.m. July 12 at Cape County Park North.

Tim Hahn, director of Cape County's 2003 Relay For Life, has reported more than 50 teams have registered for this year's event.

Team campsites will be set up for a fun-filled overnight event with unique expressions on the theme music, music, music. The event celebrates survivorship and raises money for research and programs of the American Cancer Society. Each team tries to keep at least one member walking on the track at all times. The event is open to the public.

Combining the Cape Girardeau and Jackson Relays, this year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever with something for everyone, according to organizers.

The Survivor's Reception, preceding the Relay, is a time to gather, reacquaint and go as a group to the Relay. It takes place from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Cape Girardeau.

Any cancer survivor interested in attending the reception should contact the American Cancer Society at 334-9197. Honorees will receive a T-shirt, sign in at the Wall of Honor and listen to inspirational remarks from Miss Missouri Outdoors, Lindsay Orr.

At 5:45 p.m. survivors will be shuttled to Cape County Park to attend the opening ceremonies. Each survivor will be give a medal. The Survivor's Victory Lap, a first lap around the track is dedicated in their honor.

Barbara Blanchard, co-chair of the Survivor's Committee, considers herself and other cancer survivors as members of a very prestigious club --God's Special Miracles. It is not a club one elects to join but being a cancer survivor entitles them to free membership.

Diagnosed with leiomyosarcomas (LMS), a very rare form of cancer that is resistant to chemotherapy or radiation Blanchard's anniversary date of Dec. 16, 1998 is forever etched in her mind.

With faith in hand and tools of an individual in control, Blanchard fought the fight and emerged with new eyes to penetrate into the very souls of those she knows; keener ears to hear those who cry out for help and deeper understanding.

Relay For Life offers something for the newly diagnosed, caregivers and friends and long-term survivors. Knowing that one in three Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, raising awareness of cancer is an important mission of the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. Other major points of importance include research for a cure, cancer prevention through education, advocacy and service.

Activities celebrating cancer survivorship include:

7 p.m. -- "Puppet Power" puppet show

9 p.m. -- Luminary ceremony including prayer, recognition and a vocalist. Walkers will cease walking temporarily for this service honoring all those who have lost their lives, are still fighting or have beaten cancer.

10 p.m. -- "Star Search" talent contest, a.k.a. "American (Cancer Society) Idol."

Midnight -- Midnight Dance Madness

1 a.m. -- Scavenger hunt, and more.

2 a.m. -- Relay Bingo

3 a.m. -- Pajama Modeling Event

5 a.m. -- Last lap, closing ceremonies