By Erika McCarden
for Altadenablog
The 2nd Annual Relay for Life of Altadena kicked-off at Farnsworth Park with a special prayer led by Altadena Community Church Pastor Joe McGowan, a stellar performance by Adjoua Skinner, an inspirational message by seven-year breast cancer survivor Jeanette Henderson, and the official Survivor Lap
“People in cancer research are doing amazing things. Every five years they’re coming up with new research,” said Henderson. “Women no longer have to be mutilated. There are more options available now.”
Photo: Jeanette Henderson addresses the relayers.
Friends and family gathered to help spread awareness and raise money for the American Cancer Society, while celebrating survivors and loved ones who lost their lives to the disease.
“I’m here because this is an opportunity to let people become aware of cancer and help raise funds for the cause,” said nine-year breast cancer survivor Zetta Robinson. "The more money that is raised, the better it will help with research and providing a longer, and better life for all survivors. This event allows us to give, share and care.”
Gwen Sheard, a 23-year breast cancer survivor added, “Raising awareness is so important. Back in my time, the topic of cancer was hidden, and the only option was chemotherapy and having a mastectomy. No one knew anything about cancer. Now, there are so many types of procedures available.”
Participants of the free, all-night relay event enjoyed an array of musical performances, including a summer concert by Those Manning Boys and a special luminaria ceremony with bagpipers from the Pasadena Scottish Pipes and Drums. Today, the event will continue with an early Pilates exercise and a pancake breakfast before the closing ceremony.
“This event really means a lot for the community. It’s my hope that the participants grow their family here, and get to know other people who are going through it and realize they’re not alone,” said Andrea Sweet, relay manager for the American Cancer Society.
Henderson added, “What I’ve learned is to eat, pray and love.”
Survivors DeBorrah Carter (9 year survivor), Zetta Robinson ( 9 year survivor), Gwen Sheard (23-year urvivor) and Devra Hall Levy (14 year survivor).
In the evening, relayers walked along a path lit by luminaria, each one commemorating someone with cancer.
