August 17, 2018 // By Chelsea Contessa
Chances are you know someone who has learned the devastating news that they have cancer. Many of us have a story of how cancer has affected our lives or the lives of loved ones.
Relay for Life is an event hosted by the American Cancer Society in over 20 countries over the past 33 years. It has become the largest fundraising event benefiting cancer research in the world. The event is a chance for teams to come together, fundraise toward lifesaving cancer research, celebrate those who have survived, support the caregivers who help others, and honor those lost.
This year, a group of Magenic employees in the Twin Cities formed the team Magenic Cares to participate in the Relay for Life of Greater Minneapolis.
Over the course of four months, the team worked to reach their goal of fundraising $3,000. Fundraisers included a company-wide swag sale, a company BBQ, and coin jars in breakrooms. Magenic Cares team members also conducted their own outreach to family and friends. By August, the team had not only met their goal, but they surpassed it - raising a total of $3,103!
The Magenic Cares team got the chance to celebrate this accomplishment and the lives of those affected by cancer on August 11th at the South St. Paul Relay for Life event. The event took place at the Fleming Field airport where each team created a campsite around a walking track. From 4:00 PM until Midnight walkers took to the track, walking together alongside caretakers, survivors, and loved-ones to signify that, as a community we are all working together toward a day without cancer. Participants lined the track with luminaries decorated in honor of loved ones and at dusk, the bags shone brightly.
“Participating in an event like this with colleagues is a special experience; seeing Magenic come together in support of a cause that is close to my heart means a lot to me.” said Jessica Ballantine, Magenic Care’s walk Team Captain.
Thank you to all who supported the Magenic Cares team this year. They are already looking forward to 2019 and expanding next year’s walk team!