Relay for Life Team holds Ribbons Week fundraiser

As the end of the school year rolls around, so does one of the nation’s most charitable events: Relay for Life. In preparation for the big event, the McNick Relay for Life Team has invited all students and faculty to take part in celebrating Ribbons Week, an idea generated by Librarian and Student Council Moderator Mrs. Anne Jones and senior Student Council member Trevor Hogue.

“This is the first time McNick has done this themed week. It’s an effort to raise awareness and funds for the annual Relay across the student body,” Jones said.

Relay for Life is the world’s largest fundraising event to end cancer. Each year, it unites communities all over the world to celebrate the ones who have beat the fight against cancer, to remember those who have lost the battle, and to raise money and awareness to end the fight for good. This year a total of 83 McNick students have pledged to participate in the Anderson Township Relay for Life at Anderson High School on May 29, all with a goal to raise at least $100 each.

It is understood that not all can be involved in the big night, which is why the team has invited the school community to participate in Ribbons Week leading up to the event. During the week of May 4, students and staff may purchase cancer ribbons for a $1 donation. Those who purchase may add the name of a loved one who has lost the battle, is fighting the battle, or has survived the battle. These ribbons will then be placed on the Ribbons Wall and lifted up in prayer during the week.

Relay for Life t-shirts, designed by senior Ploy Sithisakularat, are also be on sale for $10. All proceeds go towards cancer research and order forms are available during both lunches as well.

Relay team members are wearing ribbons all week as an indicator that they are also accepting donations. The final event planned for Ribbons Week is on Friday, May 8. For $1, students and staff may come to school out of uniform wearing the color of cancer of choice to show support for that type. Ribbon wheels are posted throughout the school showing what color represents each type of cancer.

“If you can’t be present for the actual relay, the biggest way to help fight is to donate. [Donations] can be made through any of the various Ribbon Week activities and no amount is too small,” Hogue said.