Smithfield Relay for Life Returns Sept. 19 with Kids Walk

When Kim Bowden led the Survivors' Lap at last year's Relay for Life, she was celebrating two years of beating cancer. This September 19, she and fellow survivors will be cheered on again as Western Tidewater's biggest cancer fundraiser returns to Smithfield's Luter Sports Complex.

The annual American Cancer Society event brings together families, businesses, and community groups for an evening of hope and healing from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Last year, roughly 100 attendees raised just over $51,000 to fund lifesaving cancer research and support programs for patients and families.

Cancer survivors who join this year receive complimentary gift bags, and those who register online get a special survivor shirt. Anyone raising $100 or more earns Hope Club recognition with a commemorative shirt.

"We invite cancer survivors to join us on the day of the event," says Jane Roberts, senior manager of events for the American Cancer Society. Families, friend groups, businesses, and organizations can all create relay teams at www.relayforlife.org/IWVA.

The evening features four signature moments: the survivor lap where attendees line the track and cheer, a caregiver celebration, a luminary ceremony remembering those lost to cancer, and a community rally against the disease.

The Ripple Effect

This year brings something new: the first-ever Kids Walk for children ages 1 to 13. With a $10 donation, young participants receive gift bags, and the boy and girl who raise the most money each win special prizes.

"The Kids Walk is a wonderful opportunity to introduce young people to the importance of community involvement and giving back," Roberts explains. It's a chance for the next generation to learn that even small actions create big change in the fight against cancer.

Three presenting sponsors have each contributed $5,000 this year: Sentara, the Langley For Families Foundation, and the Smithfield Soccer Club. The soccer club has been particularly committed, running its annual "Kickin' It for Cancer" tournament for over a decade to support the cause.

Relay for Life has been bringing Isle of Wight County, Surry County, and Suffolk communities together since 1994, proving that when neighbors unite, hope multiplies.