Relay For Life getting back to the basics with message

Noah Mason places an "I Hate Cancer" scarf on his sister Mackenzie, while she sorts key chains being sold to raise money for Relay for Life. David Jenkins, Staff

SIKESTON -- This year's Relay For Life theme, "iRelay," may mimic Apple product names, but there's nothing complicated about its message.

"It's getting back to the basics of the Relay and remembering why we relay," said Samantha Jarrett, event chair for the Scott County Relay. "We all have an 'iRelay' story -- why I relay and why I want to help."

Sarah Ezell, community manager of development for American Cancer Society, agreed.

"Yes, we're there to raise money for cancer research, and make sure we hopefully find cures for these terrible diseases, but we want people to think about why they're there," said said Ezell who oversees Relays in Scott, New Madrid, Mississippi, Pemiscot and Dunklin counties.

Created 25 years ago, Relay For Life gives communities the chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and fight back against the disease through an overnight team relay at a track or path.

Scott County will have its Relay kick-off party at 6 p.m. Nov. 8 at the YMCA of Southeast Missouri's community room.

"For those who don't know what Relay For Life is or they do have someone who's been touched by cancer, and they want to be involved, whether helping or coping or want to fundraise, they should come to the kick off," Ezell said.

Jarrett emphasized the Scott County Relay is for the entire county. However, most of the participation comes from the southern half of the county.

"We are really pushing for more participation from northern Scott County," Jarrett said.

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