Millions of people around the nation participate in The American Cancer Society Relay For Life marches in support of finding a cure for cancer. Not only is it important to Americans, but it gives everyone across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.

For several years Newton High School has hosted such events to raise money for cancer research. Last year if a student donated a certain amount of money they were able to watch relay teams of teachers walk the track non-stop all day. There were refreshments such as popsicles and drinks available to students.

Well, it is that time again; students should start getting their donation money ready for this year’s Relay Walk.
On Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at the NHS track, students will be allowed to support cancer awareness.

As in years in the past, students will pay to go to the track, but this year will be a different. Instead of getting out of class the whole day, students will have the opportunity to go to the track for a designated period. Ninth graders will go during first block, sophomores during second block, juniors during third block and seniors during fourth. A donation of two dollars per student will allow the class to go to the track.

George Miles is head of this fundraiser. Last year, the school raised 11,000 dollars, but this year’s goal is 15,000 dollars.
There will be field day events held for students to compete. Individual classes have to raise $300 each in order to compete in field day events. These events will consist of wheelbarrow races, sack races, and three-legged races.

Relay team members who earn at least $100 in donations can walk on the track. Teachers who contribute $10 each can walk on the track during planning periods.

Newton County also has a countywide Relay for Life event on April 28-29. This is a 24-hour event. Relay teams will walk the track with one representative from their team on the track at all times. This relay is to represent the fact that cancer never stops.

The effort put into the fight against cancer never goes unnoticed. People all around the world are fighting against cancer. Everyone should come out and support Newton County in their efforts to fight cancer.