CULLMAN – On Friday, April 15, Mayor Max A. Townson proclaimed May 6, 2016, “Relay for Life Day” and May 1-6, 2016, “Paint the Town Purple Days” in the City of Cullman to help raise awareness of the upcoming Cullman Relay for Life event and the American Cancer Society’s ongoing fight against cancer.
Relay for Life began in May 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington, raising $27,000 for the American Cancer Society to help fight cancer. From that event, the Relay for Life movement has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, raising nearly $5 billion to fight cancer and a symbol of the emotional commitment each of us can make in the fight against cancer.
The American Cancer Society is making progress toward a world without cancer. Fundraising and awareness campaigns help them in their fight against every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community.
“We are fortunate to have people in our community who work to educate the public about cancer, and who plan and promote events like Relay for Life to help raise funds for the American Cancer Society,” said Mayor Townson. “Relay for Life is a very important event each year in Cullman, and I encourage all of our citizens to take part or support the events that will be taking place.”
In the days and weeks leading up to the Relay for Life event at the Cullman County Fairgrounds, businesses throughout Cullman are asked to Paint the Town Purple by displaying purple ribbons on their doors. Then, on May 6, 2016, the Relay for Life event will be held at the Cullman County Fairgrounds to celebrate local cancer survivors.
On hand to accept the proclamation from Mayor Townson were Haley Marecle, Helen Allen, Gail Crutchfield, Shirley Wise and Linda Walker.
