By Madeline Master

Relay for Life is back at Central this year and expected to be a fun-filled, emotional event. The 24 hour relay starts at 10 am on May 17 and ends at 10 am the next day. The event is divided into six different ceremonies dedicated to those who have passed or are currently fighting the battle with cancer.

This year, Walled Lake Central’s National Honor Society (NHS) is hosting the event and forming a team in honor of beloved chemistry teacher and NHS sponsor Traci Banjanin as she fights her battle with cancer.

“This year it’s especially close to home because we are honoring pancreatic cancer in honor of Mrs. Banjanin,” said junior team co-chairman and NHS member Gabby Crockett.

One of the most memorable ceremonies of the night is the lighting of the luminary bags to honor loved ones lost from cancer and dealing with cancer.

“It is a very spiritual and uplifting part of the event that I’ve always loved and participated in. So I hope to see many of you there,” said Traci Banjanin in an email to NHS.

Although the event is 24 hours long, participants may show up for any period of time in between. You can sign up online to be officially part of the team for a $10 fee. So far, 20 Central students are signed up to stay and walk all night.

“We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the entertainment and cheer on fellow classmates,” Crockett added.

All of the money raised goes to the American Cancer Society to advance cancer research, so even if you cannot attend, any donations are greatly appreciated.