Photo By Sgt. Shannon Yount | (Left to right) Private First Class Adrian Velasco and Staff Sgt. Jeffery Worley,...... read more read more
MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE BARSTOW, Calif. - In May 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran around a running track for 24 hours in Tacoma, Wash., ultimately raising $27,000 to help the American Cancer Society in its fight against cancer.
Twenty-eight years later, cancer survivors, caregivers and members of the High Desert community honored Klatt’s fight against cancer by participating in a 24-hour walk/run at the Barstow High School athletic field, May 18 and 19.
The 16th annual Relay for Life of Barstow was an overnight event where people camped around the field and committed to take action and spread awareness of cancer research, treatment, and prevention.
During the relay, more than 800 individuals came together to celebrate those who have battled cancer, remember lost loved ones, and fight against the sometimes deadly disease. Cancer kills more people than AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis combined, according to the American Cancer Society website.
“This is a way to get people together, have fun and raise money,” said Chikyra Potter, event chair for the 2013 Relay for Life of Barstow.
Every year there is a theme and this year’s theme is “In it to win it.” Potter explained that the committee chose the theme because it takes a team to find a cure and it takes a team to support the caregivers and survivors.
“We are all here to fight back,” said Potter.
Among the 44 teams participating in the event, one team was comprised of Marines from Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow.
“I thought it would be a great opportunity to get some Marines together and support a good cause,” said Cpl. Bryanna Kessler, a member of team Desert Rat and stableman with the Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard.
For one Marine with team Desert Rat, the event hit close to home since both of his parents had battled cancer.
“My mom and dad had cancer and they were able to beat it,” said Pfc. Adrian Velasco, an administrative clerk with S-1. “This was a way to honor them and support a great cause.”
When team members weren’t trekking around the track, participants enjoyed putting their feet up and listened to live entertainment performed by local bands on a stage.
Individuals were also given the opportunity to participate in raffles and games, purchase catered food, and perform well-known songs … all to raise money for the cause.
“The family environment is the best part about the event. There is something for everyone, and it’s something the kids look forward to,” said Jet Eddy, a second-time participant and team member of Dianna’s Darlings. Eddy walked for her late mother-in-law, Dianna Eddy, who died of lymphoma in August 2011 at the age of 53.
In the evening, men, women, and children of all ages, placed illuminated bags along the track and held a moment of silence honoring loved ones affected by cancer.
The Luminaria Ceremony honored those currently battling cancer, survivors, and those who bravely fought the disease, but are no longer here. Each luminaria bag was personalized for a friend or loved one.
“We appreciate everyone who came out and supported the cause,” said Potter. “I look forward to next year.”
According to the American Cancer Society website, the Relay for Life of Barstow raised more than $90,000. All proceeds from the event will support cancer research, transportation for cancer patients and programs provided by ACS.
For more information about Relay for life, visit http://wwww.relayforlife.org.
| Date Taken: | 05.22.2013 |
| Date Posted: | 05.22.2013 18:16 |
| Story ID: | 107400 |
| Location: | BARSTOW , CA, US |
| Web Views: | 47 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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