Relay for Life participants celebrate, remember and fight back
Local heroes rallied together at the 2011 Relay for Life of Chesapeake. These dedicated and hardworking volunteers spent countless hours fundraising throughout the year, culminating in this annual event to celebrate cancer survivors and caregivers, remember those who have lost the fight against cancer, and to fight back so that someday no one will have to hear the words, You have cancer.
NJROTC Color Guard from Salem High School was on hand to help get things started with the National Anthem sung by Ashley Smith, Miss Virginia 2011.
The Pink Fire Truck leads the first lap around the track followed by hundreds of cancer survivors and caregivers.
Cancer survivors and caregivers made the first lap around the track to the cheers of the crowd of onlookers.
Vendors like Gary Ornoff of Kona Ice were on hand selling their goods with a portion of the proceeds going to help fight cancer.
Suzanne Close, left, and Tamara Wood of Old Point Bank sold drinks to relayers as part of their fundraising efforts.
The Luminaria Ceremony is the most emotional part of the Relay event as it honors those who have fought the battle against cancer and remembers those who have lost.
Arial photo of the Relay for Life grounds at Chesapeake City Park courtesy of Mike McColgan
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