Friday’s stormy weather halted the fourth annual Texas A&M-Commerce Relay For Life, but despite the setback, the event still raised a little more than $48,000, according to Luis Franco, advisor for the Colleges Against Cancer chapter at A&M-Commerce.
“Unfortunately, the event was shut down early due to severe weather. We worked with the University Police Department and Commerce Police to stay informed of any changes throughout the night, however, once we felt that it was unsafe for a large group of people to be underneath a structure like the Field House, we made the decision to end the event and advise people to return to their residences and seek shelter,” Franco said.
Franco said that it was unfortunate that the event was cut short because several of the teams had been working hard to prepare for the event and even invested in their onsite fundraisers and campsite decorations.
According to Franco, there have not been any plans made to re-schedule the event since he doesn’t know if the teams would have the time and availability on such notice to participate in and organize a 12-hour event.
“Although the walk was ended early, the Survivor reception and recognition as well as the opening lap with the survivors and the opening ceremonies with President Dr. Keith McFarland and Dr. Hal Langford addressing the crowd.”
Franco said that Relay For Life of A&M-Commerce has earned good reputation throughout the American Cancer Society and has been recognized locally and nationally for it’s fundraising efforts, particularly for our school size.
“In the four years we have held this event, the students and members of the university and Commerce community have shown tremendous support and dedication which has allowed us to raise over $165,000 towards the fight against cancer. We are very thankful to all of those that were involved as a participant, team captain, survivor or event sponsor and we hope they will all continue their involvement in the years to come.”
Editor-in-Chief Joey Dean contributed to this article.