Fighting for the cure, rain or shine

BESSEMER — The 17th annual Relay for Life kicked off in a big way on Friday, despite damp weather.

The event was originally scheduled to be held at Massie Field in Bessemer, but because of soggy conditions, it was moved inside the gymnasium at A.D. Johnston High School.

“We’re sad that we had to move inside,” Carol Lillar, planning committee chairman, said. “Even though it cleared up a bit in the afternoon, the field is just too wet.”

During the opening ceremony, it was announced that almost $20,000 was collected before the relay began, and that the overall goal is $30,000.

To help raise more money, attendees can purchase food, luminaries and pirate-themed gear for the theme “Make Cancer Walk the Plank.”

“We will accept all donations, even after the event is over,” Lillar said.

Also on Friday night, attendees listened to music by the Gogebic Range Concert Band and Marty’s Goldenaires. Survivor Susan Wolfe, of Hurley, spoke at the event, and survivors from across the area participated in the survivors’ lap.

The relay continues today, with the Veterans of Foreign Wars providing a breakfast from 6-10 a.m. The cost is $6 and all of the proceeds benefit the relay.

There will also be kids’ games from 9-10:30 a.m. and the final lap will take place at 1 p.m.

“We hope to see a lot of people here,” Lillar said. “While there are advantages of having it indoors, including no bugs, we hope to have it outdoors next year.”

For more information, call Lillar at 906-285-1728 or visit lillar@sbcglobal.net.