Due to the hardships COVID-19 has caused throughout the community, the 2020 Fayette County Relay for Life, originally scheduled for June 6, has been cancelled.

“It is with a sad heart that I make this announcement,” explained Beth Blair, the Relay for Life chairperson. “I cannot in good conscious ask businesses and individuals to donate to this cause when I know they have been impacted by closures and layoffs.”

This would have been the 22nd Relay to occur locally.

“I know cancer never sleeps, and there are those still fighting,” said Blair. “I pray for each of you, for God to give you strength to continue fighting, and that a cure is in our near future. If we can organize enough volunteers, I would like to hold a Survivor Reception sometime in the fall to celebrate all of you. We may be able to incorporate a luminary service as well.”

Fayette County Relay for Life teams that already started fundraising can turn in those funds to Dorra at Merchant’s National Bank. The funds will then be forwarded to the American Cancer Society.

The Fayette County Relay for Life website will continue to update team and individual fundraising totals.

Those who have already sponsored the event this year are asked to let Blair know what should be done with the sponsorship. It can be donated to the American Cancer Society or it can be returned.

“Thank you for your continued support and your understanding during this troubling time. If you have any further questions, please let me know,” said Blair.

Beth Blair can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 740-636-3001.