On Saturday, June 13, 2015, at Westwood Sports Complex, 1900 Westwood Drive, Sterling, IL, Relay For Life of Whiteside County celebrated its 20th anniversary. The event was shortened to just six hours, rather than an overnight experience as in the past. Relay is held to give everyone a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones, and fight back against the disease.
This year the Whiteside County event started at 3:00 p.m. with some wonderful youth activities. At 6:00 the opening ceremony was held–survivor’s made the first lap. The Luninaria Ceremony was held at 9:00, with over 400 lighted bags surrounding the track. Each was placed in the name of someone who has passed or is a cancer survivor.
There were 29 teams from the Whiteside County area that gathered to celebrate the Relay For Life event. Over 500 participants took turns walking the track and enjoyed music, food, and activities.
Pictured are the Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois plus Relay volunteers carrying the huge 24 x 24 foot American flag as Maddie Geil sang the National Anthem during the opening ceremony. This set the pace for the evening. Rev Robert Burton from Morrison[, IL,] Bethesda Lutheran Church gave the opening prayer.
Clinton[, IA,] High School Cheerleaders performed at the event.
It was announced that over $110,000 has been raised for cancer research so far in Whiteside County. Teams may still turn in money, by sending it to American Cancer Society, 4312 East Street, Rockford, IL 61108.
The Relay For Life of Whiteside County Planning Committee consisted of 23 members from across the County.