Relay for Life June 26, 2008

Last Friday evening, I had the pleasure to photograph the Relay for Life event in Overland Park/Leawood. It was great to see so many teams representing so many businesses, community groups, churches and friendships across the two suburbs. The total amount raised was somewhere over $25,000!

Look at this little cutie:

This mother-daughter pair was walking during the survivor’s lap that kicks off the 12 hour event — the mom’s sign says, “This lap is in honor of my daughter Emilee!”

These next two photos were taken during the moving luminaria ceremony — everyone gets a candle lit if they know someone battling cancer, have taken care of someone battling cancer, know a cancer survivor, have lost a loved one to cancer — it was amazing how quickly the candles were lit up.

To see the entire Relay for Life album, click here.

Giving Back: Relay for Life May 8, 2008

I am SO excited to be the official event photographer for the Relay for Life event in Overland Park/Leawood. With so many family members and friends who have been affected by cancer, I am glad that I can use the talent I have been blessed with to help commemorate this local event. As the teams race for the cure, I’ll be capturing the emotion, spirit and dedication that is evident at every Relay event I have ever attended. I am looking forward to serving my community and playing a small role in the search for a cure.

If you haven’t yet donated to a Relay for Life event, consider checking out this team (Fiesta Fighters) and donating to their goal. Otherwise, look up your local event and see if there’s still time to form a team or donate to a local group.

The event takes place on June 20th, and I can’t wait to share the photos with you. For now, enjoy this photo from the K-State Relay for Life event during my junior year of college:

That’s me, third from the left in the front row (with the REALLY long hair!) — and look, there’s my maiden name on the dog tag! The team was part of a college service organization, Circle K International, and we always won the award for best campsite. :)