My Journey for Mrs. North Carolina: "It may take a lifetime, but it should not take a life"

I have been involved with Relay for Life for the last 5 years. I have been a part of teams in 4 different Counties in the state of NC, and each one is an inspiration for me. While living in the Mountains of North Carolina and teaching, I donated to Relay so I could wear my jeans to school. I had no idea what Relay was or what they did. It wasn't until my Great Uncle was diagnosed with Cancer in 2008 that I really looked into what Relay for Life is, and decided that I wanted to be a part of it. I was amazed at all of the different areas the American Cancer Society focuses on, from scientific research, transportation, seminars and classes for those dealing with cancer, 24 hour counseling for those with the diagnosis, Health and beauty classes for women who have lost their hair, and Relay is only a part of this. I have lost several family members over the last 2 years due to this terrible disease. A fellow co-worker had on a shirt the other day that said "it may take a life time, but it shouldn't take a life". What a message. When I started at Koontz Elementary last year my principal called together the community committee at school (which I was a part of) and asked if anyone would like to step up to be the Team captain for our schools Relay for Life. I immediately shot my hand up. What a great organization to get involved with, and get the whole school involved in.
It has been a tremendous amount of work. Each month we have "theme" days where student's bring in a donation for Relay for Life and they can dress up like the theme. I give out prizes to the students who have the best look in the school, plus I give a staff prize also. The day of the theme I also take pictures around the school and create a video to play on the morning broadcast to show the whole school! The students love seeing each other dressed up and it really encourages others to get involved the next time! Below you will see some pictures from some of our themes.. Tacky Day, Book Character Day, Hippie Day, College Day. Not only was I taking on the project of Relay for Life, I encouraged my students to take a part. A huge part of my job as a teacher is not just to teach them what they need to know for 3rd grade, but to teach them life lessons. Through Relay my students have learned compassion, humility, and giving back to others. Our walk is May 13 and 14th and I look forward to spending the time with others who are fighting against this terrible disease. I look forward to seeing several students from my school walking the first lap with the survivors...showing that these kids will be given more birthdays, these kids will have the cure for cancer in their lifetime, and these kids thank those survivors for paving their way.. What a statement. This is what it is all about, "Giving Every Child a Chance".