Relay for life raises over $7,000
Despite facing limitations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Merrill Relay for Life still managed to raise over $7,000 as a result of various events.
“Due to COVID-19, Merrill Relay for Life was not able to have our usual celebration at the Festival Grounds,” explained event lead Kathy Liberty.
“While we could not have a luminaria ceremony, we still wanted to honor our loved ones, so we decided to replace the luminaria bags with solar lights. The lights could be viewed at the Lincoln County Courthouse from Wednesday, July 29 through Sunday morning, August 2nd.”
Relay for Life Merrill also held a virtual ceremony.
The event included an opening statement from Liberty, an opening prayer by Father Maria from St. Francis Xavier Parish, a proclemation by Mayor Derek Woellner announcing July 29 -August 1 as Purple Week in honor of those touched by cancer and Katrina Woller; Hero of Hope, told the very moving story of her cancer journey. The virtual ceremony ended with a powerpoint presentation of the solar light dedications. Each part of the ceremony is available on the Merrill Relay for Life Facebook page.
Monies raised through basket and big-ticket item drawings, as well as donations for the solar lights totaled over $7,100.
“Thank you to the people and businesses of Merrill for your support, especially in this difficult year,” Liberty adds.
“Your support draws us closer to the day when cancer will be eliminated.”