Organizers and team leaders for the 2009 Wilkes County Relay for Life met last week to begin the planning process for the annual fund-raising event set for May 1. With a theme of "Cruisin' for a Cure," the 2009 Wilkes County Relay for Life has been set for Friday, May 1, 2009.

The annual Kick Off Party will be held January 20, organizers say. "I am excited with the number of talented volunteers that have joined together to work on the 2009 Relay event," Carol Jackson said. "I expect this to be our best event thus far."

Led by a steering committee headed by Jackson and including Cathy Lannae, Margie Burke, and Carolyn Reynolds, the 2009 Relay for Life event planning process is now in full swing. "Wilkes County is fortunate to have such strong leadership in the planning of this important event," says Summer Garrison, American Cancer Society Senior Community Manager and ACS partner for Washington-Wilkes.

On November 5, the 2008 Relay for Life planning committee hosted a reception at The Sandwich Shop to thank area team captains for the success of this year's Relay event. Team captains were greeted by the planning committee and served sandwiches and cheesecake.

The program, presented by Garrison, Lannae, Amy Treadwell, and 2009 Event Chairman Jackson, recognized teams and their special contributions to the Relay. Also included was the presentation of two awards to Wilkes County for outstanding achievement in raising funds for cancer research, patient services, and patient education.

"The 2008 Relay for Life was a huge success due to advance planning and the community support of 42 corporate sponsors and 23 teams," stated Lannae. "Cancer patient services have been put in place for Wilkes County with the Road to Recovery program providing free transportation to Augusta for cancer treatment and the Look Good, Feel Better program. In addition, Wilkes County residents have take advantage of the Hope Lodge during cancer treatment."

For more information and volunteer opportunities, contact Jackson at 706-285-2818, Lannae at 706- 678-2862, or Garrison at 706-731- 9900.