HAMLET – As many in the community already know, Relay for Life is a yearly event that, for the past few years, has taken place outside Richmond Community College’s Cole Auditorium.
The event is a way for local residents to raise money in the fight against cancer. The difference this year is that children and youth will also have their own a way to participate.
Kelly Wheeler, a Richmond County native and now the “Kids Walk Coordinator,” was stricken with childhood cancer, so when the idea came along to help get young people involved, she jumped at the chance.
“This year we are doing several activities within Relay for Life to bring in additional crowds and generate different interest levels,” said Wheeler. “One is an event within the event called the ‘Kids Walk.’ It’s a chance for children and youth of all ages to use the theme ‘One Day. One Night. In Our Community. To be a Part of the Fight.'”
According to Wheeler, the Kids Walk will take place the same night as Relay for Life on Friday, May 4, from 7 to 7:30 p.m., and children from birth to eighth grade are welcome to participate.
She went on to explain that kids can fundraise individually, with support of friends and family. The amount they raise will be totaled at the end of the walk, and there will be prizes for top fundraisers. There will also be a “King and Queen of Relay” and costume contests, along with crafts and a helium balloon release in honor or memory of a loved one who has or is fighting cancer.
“It’s a chance for the kids in our community to get in the fight for their future and their loved ones,” Wheeler said. “This new event is to stimulate interest with kids and families since they aren’t getting exposure at school. It’s all about our babies here helping out other kids.”
Those interesting in participating or who have additional questions can contact Wheeler via email at rcokidswalk@gmail.com or by phone at 910-417-9752.
“This is a part of Relay for Life,” Wheeler emphasized, “but is an event for children to specifically contribute and take up their fight against cancer by honoring loved ones, sharing memories of those lost or standing up for their future to live in a world without cancer.”
