Anna-Catherine Kueng ~ Assistant Editor
The Relay for Life chapter at the University of Lynchburg held their late night blanket making event on November 29. The event was held in Pete’s Place from 8:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., and students could come and make blankets and scarves for cancer patients.
Emily Ball, President of Relay For Life at UofL, said that approximately 30 people attended the event and she said the turnout was “great.” They were able to make 16 blankets and 19 scarves.
“Relay For Life is always looking for ways to serve the community in terms of both raising cancer awareness and bringing more support to cancer patients,” said Ball.
Amanda Pugh, a student at the university, said she chose to join Relay For Life as a freshman because of the organization’s dedication to helping those affected by cancer. “I did Relay for Life back home as a kid, and I wanted to support a cause that I know helps a lot of people,” said Pugh.
This was the first year Relay For Life held a Late Night event. According to Ball, “Relay For Life had never done a Late Night event before, but when we realized clubs could sponsor these events, we decided to do it.” She added, “We had fun Christmas music playing [during the event] and it was a very relaxed environment right before the start of finals.”
Pugh enjoyed volunteering at the event, saying, “I loved seeing how many people came, seeing new faces, and getting the name out there about Relay For Life.”
The items made at the event will be donated to the Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center in Lynchburg. According to the Centra website, the center opened in 2008 “bringing radiation and medical oncology together in one facility for patient convenience.”
The blankets and scarves made by Hornets will go directly to cancer patients at the Pearson Cancer Center. “The blankets will be given to patients to use when they receive chemotherapy treatment, and the patients can then take the blankets home with them,” said Ball.
In addition to late night events, the club is also preparing for the annual Relay for Life at the University of Lynchburg. It will be held on Saturday, April 13, from 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. According to the American Cancer Society website, “Relay For Life is a grass roots, community-based team event. Although every Relay For Life event is different, they do have a few things in common.”
The website explained that “survivors and caretakers are the heart and soul of Relay For Life events. We honor their strength and courage with every step they take. It doesn’t matter if you were diagnosed 10 days ago or 10 years ago, you can walk while everyone gathers together to cheer you on.”
To learn more about Relay For Life at UofL, or to make a donation for the April event, contact president Emily Ball or other members of the club.
