Brooke-Hancock Relay for Life takes a different form during pandemic
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WELLSBURG -- While the Brooke-Hancock American Cancer Society Relay for Life took a different form this year, the same spirit was intact as organizers reflected on the heroism of those who have battled the disease and those who have stood beside them.
Tammy Hornick, the event's chair, said she was saddened when she learned the traditional walk around the Brooke High School athletic track would have to be canceled to prevent spread of COVID-19.
"I kept telling my husband (Paul, who also is a co-chair for the event), we have to do something," said Hornick, who noted a virtual relay connecting participants through the internet was one suggestion.
But Hornick felt community members needed to come together in some way, and over a few days, she and Della Serevicz, a long-time Relay team captain and former chair, came up with the same idea.
And on Saturday night Relay supporters in 22 vehicles -- including local law enforcement and city firefighters -- drove along Charles Street, from the city's town square to Central Park, passing more than 2,000 luminaria at each side of the street.
As in past years, the paper bags containing lighted candles bore the names of cancer survivors and loved ones who lost their battle with the disease.
Steve Lauck, another co-chair for the event, said area residents were invited to meet with organizers on the town square on the previous two Saturday mornings to sponsor them, making a donation of their choice.
"We know, due to COVID-19, people might not be working," he said.
Nonetheless, at least $1,000 was raised through the fundraiser, with proceeds going to services for cancer patients, education, prevention and research supported by the American Cancer Society.
Facing Charles Street in the park were the large wooden, purple letters spelling "Hope," decorated with hundreds of white Christmas lights. They were created two years ago by Lauck, his father, Howard; and his cousin, Cecil Toner.
With the help of disc jockeys Ron Music and Chris Knicely, Hornick and others addressed a small group at the center of the park and the many drivers who parked around its perimeter.
"One person can make a difference," Hornick told attendees, noting the many cancer patients who have been aided by the American Cancer Society through funds raised by the events.
Attendees also heard from Pam Toner of Wellsburg, who related her battle with breast cancer.
Toner said she became involved with the relay in 1997 to support a friend before she herself was diagnosed with the disease in 2017.
She said she endured four rounds of intense chemotherapy, radiation and the emotional impact of the disease through the support of her husband and family and friends, including Serevicz and Becky Rice; and Addie Omits, a nurse she came to think of as family.
Cancer-free for three years, Toner reminded those who are facing cancer now they can turn to family and friends for support.
For those who are facing it alone, she advised, "Look to those who have traveled the same rough road because we are all family."
(Scott can be contacted at wscott@heraldstaronline.com.)