Avon Cannonier is an active participant in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life because the group helped so much when her daughter was fighting for her life. This weekend at Charlotte Amalie High School, she’ll get a chance to give back.
Cannonier said that she learned about the ACS in 2003 when a friend was diagnosed with cancer. A short time later, her daughter was also diagnosed. She said the resources that the group provided were a big help; and although her daughter and her friend both ultimately lost their battles with cancer, she has remained connected to the group’s cause.
“It’s a way to give back,” she said. “Something that was shared with me, I’m sharing with others.”
This is Cannonier’s sixth year participating in the fundraising event, for which she serves as vice chair. She said the relay is vital because it raises money that will help people in the community in their battle with the potentially deadly disease.
“Travel, medicine…for most people within our community, it is a high cost once you’re diagnosed with any kind of cancer.” She said the money goes to anyone who needs it.
The Relay for Life is scheduled for Saturday, June 26 through Sunday June 27 at the Charlotte Amalie High School track. Cannonier said the ACS is still looking for participants.
“We were hoping to get 80 teams, we are at about 55,” she said. Teams are typically made up of 12 to 15 people and must raise $1,500 to participate. Those not involved with a team will be able to watch the relay and observe dance groups, bands and other activities for a $10 donation. The ACS is also looking for more corporate sponsors for the event.
Anyone looking to get involved in the Relay for Life can contact Cannonier at 340-690-6354.
“It’s a community activity,” she said. “I would hope the entire community would get involved.”
