Making great strides against disease of cancer

Throughout the night, the people of the McCook area showed their love and support for friends and family members who have battled cancer.

The inspirational and uplifting event -- known as the Southwest Nebraska Relay For Life -- took place Friday night and Saturday morning at Norris Park, with 25 teams and scores of cancer survivors joining for an around-the-clock effort to raise money, and awareness, of cancer's overwhelming effect on our community and our world.

It was a joy to see the Relay unfold.

Starting weeks ago -- and gaining steam in recent days -- this year's Relay for Life produced an incredible total of 3,000 luminaria. Those special symbols, which are lighted candles in small sacks of sand, are touching tributes to those who have fought the cancer battle. The overwhelming response from luminaria sponsors prompted the Relay committee to call upon the Work Ethic Camp for assistance. And the WEC team responded, filling hundreds of sacks with sand and candles and placing them along the Norris Park walkways.

The lines of luminaria were an impressive sight. But, as inspiring as the lighted candles were, they were just one of many highlights on the magnificent evening.

Teams worked throughout the day Friday to set up tents, then began gathering at 5:30 p.m. to prepare for the all-nighter. The program kicked off with a sing-along at 6:30, led by Christi Stevens. This was followed at 7 p.m. by the introduction of teams and the personal stories of the honorary co-chairs, Arnie Schuster and Jerry Vap, both of whom are cancer survivors.

Arnie and Jerry then led a procession of cancer survivors, wearing bright blue T-shirts, in the opening lap of the night-long Relay.

From that point forward, the Relay continued at a fun and frisky pace, with a cake walk, lap poker, reverse laps, a bed head contest and a "little boogie in your walk" among the many activities.

The Relay officially wrapped up at 8 a.m. Saturday with all on hand joining for a Victory Lap.

How symbolic and how fitting. By working together -- as a community and a nation -- we are making tremendous strides in the battle against cancer. The all-night Relay and the continuing effort to find a cure and relieve suffering put us on the path to victory.