UPPER LAKE, Calif. – The American Cancer Society held its annual Relay for Life of Lake County on the football field at Upper Lake High School on Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7.

Mike Sheets and an amazing staff of volunteers made it all possible.

The opening ceremony began with a blessing from Aaron York followed by the Lake County Diamonds Gymnastics Team leading the Pledge of Allegiance.

The National Anthem was sung by Melissa Maregrave and Teryn Husley as Kaysea Murphy carried the stars and stripes on horseback around the field.

Crew members from the Northshore Fire Protection District were on hand to present awards to the survivors who took the first lap around the field. 

Close to 300 hundred family members and friends came out to listen to DJ Israel play an amazing range of music for the crowd while they walked and talked enjoying one another’s company.

From the Kids Zone with the bounce house, mechanical bull, and obstacle course to all the fun and wacky laps all those who participated had a blast.

Numerous vendors were on hand providing awareness, prevention, treatment options and family support.

Many people spent the entire day fundraising, enjoying a wide range of yummy food donated by Running Creek Casino and walking their hearts out.

At night, they continued their laps by candlelight in the form of the luminaria bags that had been decorated throughout the day. These bags all represented someone special from those who lost their battle to those who are still with us.

The event raised over $20,000 and funds are still rolling in. The teams will be fundraising until the end of August.

There was an awards night party on May 18 at Lakeport Senior Center from 6pm-8pm. There teams received awards, sponsors were honored and they decided on next year’s Relay For Life date and location.

All are welcome to join. For more information please contact Mike Sheets at 707-349-2574.