David S. Rodock
dsrodock@valdosta.edu

To help raise awareness about and money to fight cancer, the American Cancer Society will be visiting Valdosta Middle School on May 5 for its annual “Relay for Life.”

The Relay for Life is a 12-hour walkathon in which cancer patients, survivors and friends create teams to participate in an all-night vigil. Each team organizes its tent setup, and tries to reach a monetary goal. Then, the teams take turns walking around the track, never allowing the track become empty.

The walk symbolizes three important steps in a cancer patient’s recovery. The first four hours is the discovery and acceptance patients must contend with. The second four hour period, set at nighttime, represents the tough times and treatment. Then as the sun rises, the next four hours represent beating cancer, remission and the new hope each day brings.

Compared to last year, VSU has more than tripled its contributions from $2500 to $8000. Donations were raised by multiple student organizations around campus ranging from Student Affairs to the Greek community.

John Wright, assistant director of Student Affairs, said, “I can’t express how thankful I am to the Greek community and to our team members who have exceeded expectations.”

Over $3500 was raised by the Greeks alone, nearly a third of all VSU contributions. Fraternities and sororities across campus held step shows, sold refreshments, and even washed cars to get donations.

The Student Affairs team representing VSU this year has 27 members participating. Students from all across campus make up the team, with Wright leading this year.

To increase competition among students, Lowndes County Fire Department donated a firefighter’s helmet to be temporarily given to whichever team raises the most money. Wright encourages all students to participate and notes that volunteers are accepted up to the day of the event.

If you can’t participate in the 12-hour event, there will also be a “Luminary Service” on Friday at 9 p.m. in which candles and torches are lit in honor of surviving and deceased cancer patients. The candles and torches are placed around the track, and can be bought at $10 and $100, respectively.

Further information can be found at the American Cancer Society’s website, www.cancer. org or through Student Life at 229-333- 5359.