The push to find a cure for cancer marches on with Relay for Life

[caption id="attachment_13038" align="alignleft" width="270"] COLLEEN SNYDER[/caption]

by Marianne Morf

Colleen Snyder knows she’s in more of a marathon than a sprint, but she’s committed to the race.

As a member of the Cerro Gordo County Relay for Life Board, Snyder and teams of others are working year-round to provide awareness about cancer and to raise money in the fight against cancer.  The group has enjoyed a great deal of success raising both awareness and dollars for the cause.

In 2014, Relay For Life of Cerro Gordo County was one of the top 50 fund raising Relay events in the Mid-West Division of the American Cancer Society (Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota), with $109,000 being raised. In 2015, over $122,000 has been raised and it is a certainty that Cerro Gordo will again be in the top 50, according to Steve Lovik, Community manager, Relay For Life Midwest Division of the American Cancer Society.  “When final numbers are in, we’ll be able to discover where we sit within the four state area.  In Iowa, Cerro Gordo Relay may be in the top five for 2015— certainly top 10.”

Snyder said she was asked by a co-worker to join the Relay for Life effort back in 2007.  Her father died from cancer, which was in advanced stages when he found it, so the effort had personal meaning for her.  She has been active in various capacities on and off over the years, but in 2013 stepped back onto the board and this year is co-chair of the Relay for Life with Diane Dennler, of Mason City.

“I really like hearing the stories of all those who get involved with Relay,” said Snyder.  “Whether it’s a family member, co-worker, or friend, we all are touched by cancer and we all want to help find a cure.”

Under the leadership of Snyder and Dennler, the Cerro Gordo County Relay for Life is getting an early start on surpassing its goal-busting 2015 mark.  Clear Lake and Mason City High School football fans were part of an early fundraiser.  When the two teams met in the season-opener back in August, the game was declared a “Coaches vs. Cancer” event and a number of fundraising opportunities took place.

Many more events will be held by individuals and teams before the June 4, 2016 Relay for Life steps off at the North Iowa Events Center in Mason City.  All persons interested in learning more about Relay for Life are invited to attend an Open House on Oct. 22 at L D’s Filling Station, 620 12th St., N.E., Mason City.  Another open house will be held