Today will be a different kind of blog post. It’s about Relay for Life! I went back and forth about whether to blog about this, because it is not exactly music therapy related. BUT, it does relate to the clients that many of us work with – those battling cancer. I had the opportunity to work with oncology patients during a music therapy practicum at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami and have never forgotten it.
Relay for Life is an event to remember those we have lost to cancer and to celebrate those who have survived it. Relay participants work to raise money for the American Cancer Society. On the day of the event, there is an overnight relay where members of each team take turns walking around the track. The idea behind this is that “cancer never sleeps.” There is a Survivor’s Lap, a Luminaria Ceremony to remember the loved ones we have lost, a Fight Back Ceremony, and lots of music and games!
I am taking part in my first Relay for Life on May 5th in Palmetto Bay, Florida. This year I decided to take part to honor my family members who have passed away: my father, who battled brain cancer and passed away in July 2009, my grandmother who battled colorectal cancer, and my uncle and grandfather who both battled lung cancer. Here I am with my dad and sister (I’m the little one with the white hat!) 
If you would like to make a donation to the American Cancer Society, visit my Personal Page which has all the details. I’ve raised $620 so far! How else can you support the cause? Take part in a Relay event in your area. They are all over the country! Through all the planning meetings for Relay, I have come to find what an amazing organization it is and cannot wait to take part in the event on May 5.
Have you taken part in a Relay for Life event?
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