To the editor:

For many, the Kansas University Relays has different meanings. It may be thought of as a time when athletes gather at Memorial Stadium to compete in a historical track and field competition. But, for others, Relay has a different meaning.

On a cold, windy and blustery May evening, KU students, staff and faculty came to Memorial Stadium with tents, sleeping bags and blankets to compete in the KU Relay for Life. This is a national event for the American Cancer Society that raises thousands of dollars for cancer education and research.

I am so proud of the student committee who worked tirelessly for almost a year to promote, encourage and engage KU to participate in this dusk to dawn walking event.

The most powerful part of the night is when all the lights go off and hundreds of luminaries light up the night. These luminaries have been donated in honor of and memory to those who have gone to battle with cancer.

Thank you, KU community, for lighting up the night so that others can find hope, strength, and support during each day of life.

Mary Chappell,
Lawrence