Washington County event kicks off at Civitan Park

By JOLENE CRAIG
BELPRE — Clouds parted and the sun came out just in time for the Relay for Life of Washington County to kick off Friday.

The all-night event at Belpre Civitan Park raised more than $200,000 before the 7:30 p.m. opening ceremonies, said event coordinator Teri Magers.

“Now it’s time to have fun,” Magers said.

Belpre Mayor Mike Lorentz thanked participants and event leaders.

“All of these warriors have dedicated an entire year to do this event and they will probably start next week for next year,” Lorentz said.

More than 50 teams with nearly 300 participants raised the money throughout the year to help fight cancer through research, education, advocacy and patient services, said event publicity chairman Marie Nutter.

“Everything is going great,” Nutter said during opening ceremonies. “Everything has come together for this wonderful night.”

The event began with the Survivors Dinner at 5 p.m. and moved into the first “Victory Lap” around 7:30 p.m.

This was the 14th year for the overnight event in Washington County. It is a way for former and current cancer patients to join with those who have lost a loved one or been affected by cancer in some way to work together.

Shari Sheers, a nurse at Marietta Memorial Hospital, attended the opening ceremonies to remember the patients she has treated with cancer.

“It’s sentimental for me,” Sheers said. “Over the year you forget the people’s faces and stories. I come here to honor and remember them.”

John Bostic of Beverly was at the event to support his wife, Pam Bostic, who is a two-year survivor of thyroid cancer.

“Being here is something I needed to do for my wife,” John Bostic said. “It’s personal to be here for her.”

Chris Hendrickson, a Marietta resident, is celebrating her 10th year cancer-free after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997.

“The Relay helps (cancer patients and survivors) bond,” Hendrickson said. “It means hope.”