The Relay for Life of Tyler County will be holding their “open house” on Jan. 21 at the Sistersville Elks ballroom, from 1-4 p.m.

“Because Carnival of Hope is the theme chosen for this years’ Tyler County event, we are going with a carnival theme for the open house as well,” said Betty J. McCoy, chairman of the Relay for Life of Tyler County.

“We are inviting everyone to attend and enjoy carnival games and activities, food and fun. Information about all aspects of Relay for Life will also be available. Team captains especially are encouraged to attend and pick up their team packets for this years programs and activities.”

Relay for Life is an American Cancer Society signature fundraising event. Teams of individuals (family, church, school, work, etc.) who have been touched by cancer, raise funds throughout the year, leading up to the actual main event. They host fundraisers and ask for donations as an individual through letters, Facebook, etc.

Other ways to contribute to the cause include volunteering to assist in planning the event, volunteer to transport cancer patients to and from treatments, make a donation, participate as a cancer survivor, or purchase a luminaria to honor or remember someone who has battled cancer. All of these acts make a difference in the fight against cancer.

Relay for Life of Tyler County proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society Programs and Services by: helping patients and family members through their cancer journey by providing resources and someone to talk to available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year by calling 1-800-227-2345; provide wigs for cancer patients free of charge; transportation assistance to and from treatments free of charge; nationwide research to help folks right here in our community (development of medications such as taxmoxiten and Gieevac, also cancer screening tests such as mammograms, PSA tests, pap test, colonoscoopy and more is made possible because of the American Cancer society); Hope Lodge in major metro areas, where patients stay free while getting treatment; smoking cessation assistance to prevent lung cancer; and support groups for men and women such as Look Good Feel Better, Man to Man, and I Can Cope, and so much more.

Everyones’ help is needed to be able to continue to provide these services and resources, and the entire Tyler County community is invited to participate in this years event.

In her fifth year as a Relay participant, and first year as chairman, Betty McCoy says she has very personal reasons for Relaying. “I’ve lost so many friends and family to cancer, and have friends and family members now that are battling against it,” she said. “Participating in Relay for Life allows me to fight back against this horrible disease. It is so important.”

McCoy and the organizing committee invites one and all to come out and enjoy not only the open house but the main event as well, scheduled for June 1. “We hope everyone will support Relay for Life of Tyler County and participate in all our events in an effort to help find a cure,” she said.

Committee members have set a goal of having 23 organized teams and raising $32,530 this year. At this point, only eight teams are registered.

Teams, team members, and local survivors are needed and can contact McCoy at 304-889-2462 for more information.