Fun times, somber memories at Relay For Life

The games, activities and music created a carnival-like atmosphere at the Carson City Relay For Life at Centennial Park on Saturday, while still touching everyone on the seriousness of why they were there.

"Every day is a celebration of life, and it should be viewed that way," said Katie Ortiz, one of the many cancer survivors wearing purple shirts at the event. "You've been given another day as a survivor, and you have to celebrate that."

More than 650 people made up about 70 teams that took turns walking around a course to raise money for cancer research, with hundreds more who turned out to support the event.

The fun and games included bounce houses for the kids, a dunk tank and belly dancing lessons. There were contests for eating watermelon, pies and peppers, root beer chugging, and even an obstacle course. The Mile High Jazz Band played on the main stage, as other music emanated from the world-themed camps spread out on the ball field.

The mood became more somber after sunset, when the more than 700 Luminarias lining the course were lit, representing those people who had died from cancer or were battling the disease. The floodlights were turned off, and names of those remembered were read aloud.

"... Michael Harper ... Chris Bruner ... Pauline ... Ed ... Dallas Baker ... Joe ... Aunt Jean ... Grandfather ..."

After the names were read, the fun and games began again, and were scheduled to last through most of the night, with a closing ceremony at 9 a.m. today.

"The whole thing is supposed to be, cancer does not sleep, and neither do we," said Joyce Whitney-Silva, planning committee co-chair for the event. "That's what's so great about it. It keeps the people going."

Whitney-Silva said that they had raised $92,000 by the afternoon, and was hopeful of reaching the goal of $100,000.

"I think people are feeling they need to do something to make a difference," Whitney-Silva said. "And this event is a place people can bring their families, have a lot of fun for not very much money, and help out."

The survivors came in all ages, like Caden Huarte, 3, who has survived his battle with a brain tumor. The goal of the event is that more people can win their battles with cancer.

"As a survivor, this gives us hope that with all the money being raised and the awareness, that someday maybe we can find a cure," Ortiz said.

You Can Help

To donate, go to carsoncityrelay.org