Relay for Life sets record and raises $86,500

Some walked alone. Some walked with friends or loved ones. Some walked with baby strollers, pets or with their children.

It made no difference the company they kept when hundreds of residents from all over Le Sueur County gathered Friday night at the Le Sueur County Fairgrounds in Le Center to participate in the 13th annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life walk.

The event brought in $86,500 to date which exceeded the goal set by ACS by more than $2500. The final amount will not be known until all matching funds and final donations are received.

More than 75 survivors participated in the opening lap of the evening led by this year's honorary chairperson, Dee Wolf. After receiving flowers at the beginning of the lap, they were joined by their caregivers and completed the first lap to applause from the crowd.

Wolf later addressed the crowd and asked them not to forget the many caregivers who go unnoticed for what they are going through. She encouraged everyone to remain positive and focus on a bright future.

Thirty-eight teams walked throughout the night to show their support of loved ones who have been affected by cancer. In honor of those people more than 3200 luminarias were purchased, hand decorated and set along the walking route with their small candles burning into the morning hours. This was an increase of over 1000 from last year.

I am very pleased with the support shown by the people in various communities within our county