Relay for Life Teams Go Pretty in Purple for First-Ever Parade

They were pretty and proud in purple, and they just couldn't wait for the official Relay for Life Oak Forest—so supporters took to Central Avenue Saturday, June 18.

The first Annual Oak Forest Relay for Life Parade kicked off at 10:30 a.m., with participants eager to march and ride their floats down Central Avenue.

Parade participants hoped to raise community awareness for the official event next weekend, which starts at 6 p.m. June 24 and continues until 6 a.m. June 25. 

"It’s a great thing to do," said Val Shalati. "Relay for Life is wonderful. We like to help the American Cancer Society. My family is very involved, my company is very involved. It’s very close to our heart."

Shalati’s company, Future Property Services, is a corporate sponsor.  She was excited to be handing out handing out some flags, T-shirts, and candies along the route.

Paula Kubilius, coordinator for thie relay, runs Heart of Relay which won first in Illinois and also nationally for engaging survivors and caregivers. They have a survivor garden at Central Park and a dinner for the survivors and caregivers in February, in addition to other events throughout the year.

Ronda Seska and her daughter Nicole Hardwick designed a boat for Barking for a Cure and were driving a golf cart for Strike Out Cancer.  Ronda said that although this is the first year for the parade, and it might be small, she hopes it's mightier year after year.

The Ring Out Cancer Team, handbell ringers from the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection rode their purple float and have been with Relay for Life for three years. They make bell-shaped dish cloths which they will be selling at the Relay for Life on Friday.

Gloria Thorne, one of the Ring Out Cancer Team and a cancer survivor herself, spoke about the groups of men and women from Church of the Resurrection who go out to assist those who are sick or handicapped by making dinners or helping with practical needs and chores. 

Thorne told Patch that this is a very personal event, as she’s had three family members with cancer.  She emphasized the need to stay positive.  

“Don’t let anything get you down," Thorne said. "Be strong and upbeat. Let your faith give you courage. Sadness only makes you sicker. It helps to get out and help others in order to forget your ills and get stronger.”

Check out Patch's photo gallery from the parade.