Recapping the Relay for Life

September 26th saw the Santa Fe Springs Relay for Life hosted in Little Lake Park. The annual fundraising event is hosted by the American Cancer Society and aims to celebrate loved ones who have passed from cancer, people who are still fighting their battle, and survivors alike.

At 10 a.m., the event had a survivor brunch, followed by an opening ceremony and the start of the famous walk. This year had a theme called “tackle cancer,” with everyone having a football-themed tent. The attendees had pop-up stands that included goodies like food, drinks, desserts, jewelry, and gadgets.

After the walk had begun, the Santa Fe High School marching band and color guard performed. They were quickly joined by firefighters and police officers, who brought out their vehicles. During the day, each tent is required to make sure they do a lap with their spirit stick to show that cancer never sleeps. At the end, it is announced who had the most spirit and who had the best tent.

The Santa Fe Springs Pageant girls were in attendance (including St. Paul's own Roxanne Quinonez), as they made their rounds and greeted others. There were bouncy houses, horseshoe toss, a two-person car race, and footballs to toss around. Numerous bands performed on the stage throughout the day, along with another performance from the Norwalk Lancers around 6pm. Despite the heat, smiles were a frequent sight, as attendees of all ages were hanging out with friends, playing games, or just spending time with their family.

After it got dark, the Relay For Life organizers had a cancer survivor come on stage and speak about his journey. He discussed the extent to which it changed his life, and how after having cancer, your “normal” isn't normal anymore. Near the end of the event, there was a ceremony where everyone gathered in a line by the stage and walked about halfway around the track. It's dark and only lit by people's signs or candles, as it is to honor everyone dealing with or who has dealt with cancer. The night is closed with fireworks being sent off following the final walk.

The Relay for Life is a very meaningful event that raises money for cancer research every year. Attending the event makes you realize how many lives cancer affects (particularly families of patients and survivors). This event is not only in Santa Fe Springs, but has spread worldwide since its 1985 origins in Tacoma, Washington to continue raising money and support for those who are battling cancer.