Relay For Life Continues Work For Cancer Research

Mahaska Health Partnership CEO Jay Christensen was one of three ‘celebrities’ who donated time for a dollar dance in order to raise money for Relay for Life. Christensen is seen here with his son who participated in the dance.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – It’s a yearly tradition in Oskaloosa that was once held during the summer months, but recently has become somewhat of a springtime tradition.

Walkers make their way around the course, raising funds for Relay for Life. Teams work in various ways to raise funds, many times in the memory of someone special. Those fundraising efforts don’t necessarily have to take place during the main event. Last year, a purple toilet was sent to various homeowners who, in turn, paid to have it sent to their ‘friends’.

Funds raised at Relay for Life, which is part of the American Cancer Society, and the funds raised in Oskaloosa go to that organization for cancer research. Money raised also helps to fund The Hope Lodge and rides for cancer patients to their doctors.

This Saturday that tradition returned, but was hosted in a new venue, Penn Central Mall. 12 teams took part in the nearly 12 hour long event, with over 60 participants.

Wyatt Russell is the event co-lead, with his wife Amanda being the other co-lead. “Today is the culmination of the last year’s work,” said Russell, who explained that the planning and preparation takes nearly a full year. The planning for next year’s Relay for Life will get underway in just a couple of weeks after this one.

“It’s our chance to celebrate survivors. Those that are still with us, and those that we have lost,” said Russell.