Relay for Life BEARS team wants to "Knock the Cells Out of Cancer"

At some point, almost everyone has been touched by cancer either through a personal diagnosis, family member, friend, or co-worker.

About three and a half years ago, Brownsboro Elementary teacher, Linda Saylors, was diagnosed with breast cancer. After undergoing six grueling months of chemotherapy and radiation, as well as a lumpectomy, Mrs. Saylors is now cancer free.

Armed with the experience and knowledge she gained through her ordeal, Mrs. Saylors has joined forces with her co-workers to form the BEARS - Brownsboro El- ementary Always Ready to Serve - Relay for Life team to help raise money for the American Cancer Society.

"I have been cancer free for the last two and a half years," she said. "I feel great and I'm very thankful to have the opportunity to continue to do what I love and that is teaching. I have two grandsons and it feels great. God is using me now."

The Henderson County Relay for Life is an overnight, community event to be held Friday, May 18, 7pm through Saturday, May 19, 7am, at the Brownsboro High School track.

It's much more than a walk around the track. Relay is a time to celebrate those who have battled cancer, remember those lost and get inspired to fight back. Those who have shared the same experience find common ground, hope and healing at Relay.

"Had it not been for events such as Relay for Life, I would not be here," Mrs. Saylors said. "I am very grateful for this."

Kicking off the event Friday evening at 7pm, cancer survivors who are present will walk the Relay for Life "Survivor's Lap." A celebratory atmosphere prevails with balloons, special music and a survivors' reception after their lap.

Another event that occurs just after sundown is the lighting of the luminaria in memory of those who have lost their battle with cancer, and to honor those survivors. The lights are turned down as the candle-lit bags line the track.

Throughout the night teams will compete against one another in such events as pajama contests, dances, beauty pageants, and other fun activities to win points and keep everyone entertained.

Relay for Life will end 7am, Saturday, with a closing ceremony and a final Victory Lap for all who participate.

The BEARS team plans to raise as much money as possible in the fight against cancer. All money raised stays in Henderson County and is used for research, education, advocacy, and patient services.

Last year the BEARS, under the name of the Red Carpet Relayers, won the Top Fundraiser Team for 2006 Henderson County Relay for Life by raising $4,972, won the Silver Starz award for points earned the night of the event, and team member BES Principal Brian Ralson won 2nd runner-up for the Mr. Henderson County Relay for Life beauty pageant.

This year, the BEARS will raise funds through the sale of food - chili dogs, hot dogs, sloppy joes, chili fries, and more - at the track's concession stand, the night of the event.

On Saturday morning, April 21, help the BEARS "Kick the Cells out of Cancer" when they gather at the intersection of Hwy. 31 and FM 314, 9am- 11am for a collection drive. You won't be able to miss their bright neon green shirts and bright cheery smiles.

Mrs. Saylors said anyone who can't make the Relay for Life event, or their fundraiser Saturday morning, can drop off contributions to the American Cancer Society at Brownsboro Elementary School.

A cancer survivor's recovery involves much more than medical treatments - it takes hope to heal. By participating in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, those touched by cancer can feel empowered to fight back against this disease.

Anyone interested in becoming involved can contact cancer survivor Trena Miers at 903-676-2078.

Survivors who would like to register for the Survivors' Lap can contact Tony Kalawe at 903-681-6089.