Our Views: Help Relay For Life Make a Difference in Cancer Fight

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Like clockwork, Relay For Life volunteers, cancer survivors and supporters come together each spring at the Southwest Washington Fairgrounds to do their part in the Herculean task of raising money for research. 

As in past years, they were wildly successful, raising more than $85,000 during the 24-hour event.

Their overall goal was lofty, though, as organizers set their sites on the $100,000 threshold. It’s not too late to help push them over the limit, which the group hopes to reach by Aug. 31. To throw your financial support behind this worthwhile effort, contact Linda Tomasheck at ltomasheck@vvhc.org, or call (360) 269-1181. 

If you require more prodding, consider the story of Katie Foss, who was among the survivors in attendance last weekend. 

Four years ago, she received an ominous diagnosis of stage 4 breast cancer. As she told a Chronicle reporter, she was devastated. 

Three months later, though, she attended her first Relay For Life event. 



“I didn’t know anything about it. I felt isolated, all alone. I didn’t have any information on what to do,” Foss said of her diagnosis. “(Relay For Life) made all the difference in the world.”

The help comes in the form of support and information. In addition the money raised by the organization — a substantial sum — allows those grappling with the worst news of their lives and opportunity to network with others who have navigated the same ordeal. 

Now, her cancer is in remission, and she’s taken her place in an endless cycle, this time providing hope to others.

“I would encourage everybody that’s been diagnosed or is a caregiver to come to one of these events and see what research can do. We are kicking cancer’s butt,” she said. 

Relay For life seems to be thriving under the guidance of organizer Tomasheck. We’re thankful for her leadership, and encourage all who are able to help the group not only reach its goal of $100,000, but hopefully surpass it.