Viewfinder: Rockwood Relay for Life

Rockwood School District hosted its 11th annual Relay For Life at on Friday. A total of 55 teams and more than 550 participants brought coolers, lawn chairs and pitched tents as they packed the stadium at Lafayette.

Together, this year's teams and participants raised $101,332.97 to be donated to the American Cancer Society for the St. Louis metropolitan region.

The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives people in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, team members camp out and take turns walking or running around the track. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event, to mimic the constant fight against cancer.

The Relay started with a Survivors' Lap, which is an inspirational time when survivors are invited to circle the track together and help everyone celebrate the victories they've achieved over cancer. The Survivors Lap is an emotional example of how Relay participants are creating a world with more birthdays, like those of each individual on the track. 

Many games, activities and hourly relays went on throughout the night, including a silent Auction, Mr. Relay (males who dress up as females and walk the track to collect donations), Relay Idol, and Super Hero Scavenger Hunt to name a few. Trophies were awarded for several activies and contests, such as Best Team T-Shirt and logo.

One of the most moving events of the evening is the Luminaria Ceremony. As the sun sets over campsites and darkness falls, the night is brightened by the glow of illuminated bags called luminaria, each bearing the name of someone who has battled cancer. Some celebrate cancer survivors, while others help honor and remember those gone too soon. All represent someone special who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to fight back in their honor.

For more information about getting involved in the 2012 Relay For Life, contact event chair Jenise Soyster at soysterjenise@rockwood.k12.mo.us.

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