Saline, Gallatin counties unite behind Relay For Life

Sherry Russell of Harrisburg has participated in the local Relay For Life before, which raises money for the American Cancer Society.

This year, it took on a whole new meaning.

In February, Russell discovered a lump in her breast. She immediately went to the doctor, where a mammogram revealed something was definitely wrong. Ultimately, Russell was diagnosed with breast cancer.

The news came as a surprise, as there was no history of breast cancer in her family.

She had surgery on March 28 and began follow-up treatment this past Friday.

"I feel fine," she said. "I feel just like I did the day before yesterday (prior to beginning treatment)."

Russell said the support of her family and friends has been overwhelming and very encouraging.

"Team Sherry," composed of 29 of Russell's biggest cheerleaders, walked in the Relay For Life event Friday night for Saline and Gallatin counties, at Paul Emery Park in Harrisburg.

They said Russell's biggest weapon against cancer from Day One has been her positive attitude.

"I'm just not going to let it get me. I have a great support group," she said.

Russell will complete her treatment on July 7, an occasion she and her family fully intend to celebrate.

The Relay For Life in Harrisburg got underway at 6 p.m. Friday and continued on to midnight. Generally an upbeat event, but the mood turned somber at 9 p.m. for the luminaria ceremony.

Hundreds of paper bags, decorated and glowing, lined the walking path. Each one represented someone fighting cancer, a survivor, or the memory of someone who lost their battle.

All music, chatter and walking ceased as the names were read of all those with a bag dedicated to them.

After the reading, participants - illuminated by glow sticks - began walking again, many searching for the bag honoring a loved one.

The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life is an annual event that has been held locally for decades. Fifteen teams participated to raise money for cancer research and to help local cancer patients.

In addition to fighters, survivors, family, and friends, local businesses and churches became involved to show their support.

The Relay For Life is "a community event to bring people together and raise money for Saline and Gallatin counties," said Paula Fulkerson, herself a survivor and volunteer event coordinator. "All of us working together is what it's all about."

Last year, the program raised over $24,000 for cancer research and hopes are high for this year because of the sizable turnout Friday. Donations will continue to be accepted until Aug. 31.