By Steffen Klenk
On Saturday, April 17th, the South Jersey community was invited to “Light Up the Fight.” Relay for Life of Linwood, a program of the American Cancer Society, held a drive-thru luminaria. The event, celebrating cancer survivors and remembering loved ones who have lost their battle, was held at the Tony Canale Training Center in Egg Harbor Township.
The theme this year is “Wish Upon a Cure.” Each luminaria bag was purchased by a community member and graciously decorated by area families, filled with bright colors and words of hope. In the hours leading up to Saturday’s event, Relay volunteers were on-site to set up the marvelous display. Lisa Camp, lead vocalist from the band GrooveHeart, sang to drivers and passengers in attendance, while Disney princesses waved along passing vehicles.
Saturday’s awe-inspiring display captured the hearts of all who attended, including Kathy Ziegenfuss of Egg Harbor Township. Zigenfuss is a former teacher and breast cancer survivor of 20 years, who spoke about her successes during the Relay for Life at Mainland Regional High School in 2018. Accompanying Zigenfuss were friends Darya Gunther and Debbie Diorio.
Sharon Leavy is co-chair for Relay for Life Linwood, and has been involved with the American Cancer Society for 10 years. Leavy says that the Luminaria was completely organized thanks to the help of volunteers. “Everybody today is here for a family member, friend, and co-worker.”
Every year, community members join together for the annual Relay for Life event, held at Mainland Regional High School. Each event starts with opening speeches, honoring everyone who has been affected by cancer. Afterwards, survivors and caregivers join together in a walk to honor their strength and courage, followed by a Luminaria ceremony after dark.
Though this year’s in-person event will not be held, the public is invited to join Relay for Life of Linwood as they host a Virtual Relay on Saturday, May 8th. Those who are interested in participating may visit www.relayforlife.org/LinwoodNJ, where you can register your team or donate to the Relay. As of April 26th, more than $10,500 has been raised for this year’s event. You can also visit the Relay’s Facebook page at facebook.com/RelayForLifeOfLinwood to watch the event live.
For more than 35 years, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life has been the world’s largest peer-to-peer fundraiser dedicated to saving lives from cancer. Every year, nearly 4 million people participate in Relay events throughout the United States and in 50 countries worldwide. To date, more than $5 billion has been raised.
The mission of the American Cancer Society is to create a world with more birthdays, and to rid the world of cancer.
Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.
