Once again the football field at Grayson County High School was lit up as family members and loved ones remembered those who have had their lives touched by cancer.

Almost everyone across the globe has had their life touched in one way or another by cancer and the Relay for Life remains a way for cancer survivors, caretakers, family members, friends and loved ones gather to honor and remember those who have fought the bravest battle of all.

So far this year’s relay has raised over $113,859 for the battle against the deadly disease. Teams have until August 31 to continue the fundraising efforts

Around 7:00 p.m. the Survivor Ceremony began with a prayer and a speech by cancer survivor Gloria Burnett.

The various teams and committee members were recognized for their involvement with the relay.

Then the Survivor’s Walk began the survivors made a special walk around the track of the football field.

Following the survivor walk, any one who had helped take care of someone with cancer walked around the track in the Caretaker’s Walk.

After sunset luminaries were lit and left glowing throughout the night to remind everyone of the incredible importance of their contributions.

The special luminary ceremony celebrating the survivorship and remembrance of those that fought against cancer was also held.

This ceremony of light symbolizes the hope and courage while work toward a cure for this deadly disease continues.

A record 54 camp sites were set up as each group, organization, business, or family that formed a team to show support for the event.

Awards that were given out were:

Twin Lakes Regional Medical Center collected the most money, $14,892.09

The most money raised by a nonprofit team was won by Broadway Baptist Church after that team raised $6,561.50

The most money raised by a family team was the Carroll Family for raising $8,900.

The most money raised by individual was Pearlie Mae York for over $1,800.

Most luminaries sold by a team was awarded to the New Life Assembly of God, $580 in luminaries.

Best decorated campsite was won by the VanMeter family with Walmart winning campsite with the best theme.

The most spirited team was won by the Knights of Columbus.

Grayson County Relay for Life Chairperson Elizabeth Mattingly was encouraged by the turnout and attitude of all those who attended the relay,

“I was really pleased with attitude throughout night,” said Mattingly. “ Everyone understood what they were there for and did a terrific.”

There were five different levels that the teams could achieve by collecting money.

The teams that achieved the Bronze Level by turning in more than $2,500 a piece were Leggett and Platt, MTD and Cruisers.

Two teams that achieved the Silver Level by turning in $5,000 or more were Broadway Baptist Church, and The Van Meter Family.

The teams that achieved the Gold Level by turning in $7,500 or more were Leitchfield Deposit Bank and the Carroll Family.

Walmart along with Twin Lakes Regional Medical Center achieved the Platinum Level because that team turned in more than $10,000.

Anyone wishing to volunteer for future Relay For Life events may contact Elizabeth Mattingly at 270-230-5415.