By SHERRY DIGMON
News Publisher
After more than a decade since the last Relay event, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life made a come-back Saturday, September 30.
Director Jodi James and her Relay committee coordinated a brunch Saturday morning at Brooks Memorial Baptist Church for cancer survivors and a kick-off that evening at Heritage Park for survivors, caregivers and the community.
Following the brunch, Jess Marion told her story – the loss of her young son to cancer in 2018.
“Survivors like you give me hope,” Marion said. “Thank you. Thank you for being the epitome of hope. Thank you for proving data and doctors wrong.”
The kick-off that evening featured several activities.
The dunking booth was popular with Atmore Police Chief Chuck Brooks, Sgt. Ryan James and Patrol Officer Chance Thompson spending time in the tank. It should be noted that Relay director Jodi James is married to Sgt. James and she dunked him twice.
The evening also featured corn hole and horseshoes.
While games are fun, the kick-off was a serious time. Survivors were invited to walk a lap around the circle in Heritage Park. On a second lap, caregivers and family were invited to join the survivors.
Luminaries lined the circle – names of those who are fighting the fight and those who lost their fight.
While this was a “soft opening” for Relay, a full Relay event is planned for the Spring.
Members of the Relay committee for the brunch and kick-off are Jodi James, Ashley Haskew, Edie Baker, Emilee Waters Craft, Felicia Bishop, Katrinka Phillips, Kayla Bell, Kim Himes, MaryAnne Heathcock, Myrna Monroe, Ruthie Stephens, Sherry Digmon, Stephanie Rolin.