Step Up for Relay for Life Friday at L-W West

The 2013 Relay for Life event in New Lenox is coming up on July 12. The 12-hour-long program aimed at raising research dollars for the American Cancer Society has 30 teams.

From 6 p.m. July 12 till 6 a.m. July 13 at Lincoln-Way West High School, 21701 Gougar Road, the track around the football field will become more than a place to watch a game. It is transformed for 12 hours into a step-by-step walk toward winning the war against cancer.

For nearly 300 participants on 30 teams, this relay is a show of courage and support for those living with the disease and those who have succumbed. Terrie Murphy, spokesperson for the New Lenox event, it's a commitment to support those who have a history with the disease. As team captain of Murph's Minions, she has walked laps in the battle she rages against cancer more than once.

READ: Relay for Life Gets Help from Chili's

Like practically everyone involved in the annual Relay for Life event, Murphy has a personal story to tell. Her husband, Pat, is currently battling the disease. She and daughter Erin Okrzesik work each year to raise funds to support research and find a cure for cancer. So far this year, Murph's Minions have raised $3,792.

According to the New Lenox page on the Relay for Life website, the Jade Fundraising Club Team has brought in between $10,000-$15,000 in donations, while the Angels Among Us Team has raised $13,405. So far, all 30 teams have worked to raise almost $76,000.

The event schedule for July 11-12

6 p.m.—Opening Ceremony

7 p.m.—Team Basket/Silent Auction

7-9 p.m.—Survivors Refreshment Tent Open

7:15-7:45 p.m.—Zumba

7:30 p.m.—Bean Bag Tournament No. 1

7:45-9 p.m.—The band "In Transition" performs

9:15 p.m.—Luminaria Ceremony

10:15 p.m.-midnight—The band "Good Times Gone" performs

10:30 p.m.—Bean Bag Tournament No. 2

11:30 p.m.-4:30 a.m.—Theme Laps and Team Contests

4 a.m.—Breakfast

5:45 a.m.—Closing Ceremony

To learn more about the New Lenox Relay for Life event, view the website. 

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