Letter to the Editor

Fight cancer, get involved with Relay for Life

Thursday, February 16, 2017

To Putnam County residents who want to make a difference in fighting cancer:

We can safely say we all know one or more people affected by the disease of cancer. The disease can impact anyone, young or old, co-workers, friends and family. We have an opportunity as a community to help change this and “fight back.”

On April 22 Relay for Life will be held at DePauw’s Blackstock Stadium, running from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Those past, present and future who have or will suffer from cancer need our help and one way we can provide that help is raising funds; that is what Relay for Life is all about. Please plan to set up a team, raise funds, and come the day of Relay to set up and join the fun.

Relay is about celebrating those who are survivors and helping raise money for research and local assistance for those in need of extra help. The American Cancer Society provides services such as transportation, through Road to Recovery; gas cards; wigs; support groups; and much more. What doesn’t seem to be mentioned often is that money raised in Putnam County stays in Putnam County, so you will be helping people you know.

If you are currently in need of assistance by the American Cancer Society, please call 800-227-2345. We know that our county is blessed that Putnam County Hospital has a dedicated team of doctors and staff serving those undergoing treatment and they too offer a support group.

Upcoming events are 5K Run on April 8 at the DePauw Nature Park, registration at 9 a.m. with $10 fee, $15 with T-shirt; fundraising Relay nights at The Duck at The Inn at DePauw, and events on the DePauw campus.

To enroll your team in the Relay for Life event on April 22, go to relayforlife.org/putnamcountyin and then enlist others to join your team. Once you are enrolled, you will receive information on meeting dates and events. Team captain meetings will begin soon at DePauw to answer questions and provide the needed information to help you succeed with your team.

Relay for Life has a Facebook page, Relay for Life Putnam Cty, please check it for updates. Relay for Life encompasses many events including the Survivor Dinner each year for survivors and one of their caregivers. The day of Relay there will be a survivor walk, a silent auction, and registered teams set up to raise more funds and enjoy the event. We invite everyone to please come to Blackstock Stadium on April 22, walk the track, support the teams, and celebrate survivors. Your support is greatly needed.

This is a county event; we need the help of everyone in the county to make the Relay for Life in Putnam County a success. Please help make a difference; your help is needed and will be greatly appreciated.

Pat Birkemeier

Community Team member