On May 2nd about 3 pm Berry Middle School track started being transformed to host the Mesquite Relay for Life.  Relay for Life is a fundraiser for American Cancer Society.  The City of Mesquite and the Mesquite Police Department along with many volunteers worked very hard to get the track ready for over 5oo people who would come out and walk in support of a friend and or family member who has been touched by cancer. 
This year The Mesquite Relay for Life raised $85,000 for Cancer Research, Treatment and Awareness. 
We had teams from Youth Groups, Soccer teams, Churches, Schools, The City of Mesquite  and just friends who wanted to be a part of the fun. 

The Relay started at 7PM with Chairperson Shirley Roberts and the Mayor of Mesquite.  Then a survivor  spoke about his battle with cancer and then over 100 Survivors took the fields for the first lap.  They were lead by the West Mesquite Drum Line.  Half way around the Survivors were joined by the Caregivers.  Then Applebees treated both to a wonderful dinner. 

Then the rest of the teams took the track with at least 1 member from thier team walking at all times. 
At 9 pm the lights were turned off and the track and stands were filled with Luminaries.  Each one represented a loved one that has been touch by cancer.  This is the most touching part of the night.  A list of names was read for people who did not survive cancer.  Then a list of names was read for those who have survived. 

At 1am the Fight Back Ceremony began.  This ceremony was to show your support and make a pledge for what you can do to make a difference.  It may be a simple as scheduling your own mammogram. 

About 2am the wind picked up, and it became pretty cold.  This did not stop this group they kept walking and maybe picked up the pace a little to try to stay warm.

Rodio City Music Hall played music all night and kept us all moving, it was a ton of fun. 

So many peple worked so very hard on this event and it showed with the end results.  If you are intrested in a team for next year, please contact me, I would love to have more then the 40 teams we had this year!  Let's shoot for over $100,000 next year!!!