Matt is a survivor, having lost a foot and part of a leg to bone cancer when he was a high school student. Now a third year pharmacy student, Matt remains cancer free. He's beating cancer due to advances in diagnosing the disease and in prosthetics.

By Monty Siekerman
At ReStore on Tuesday, three ONU students talked about the next Relay for Life in Ada, encouraging more participation from the community. One of the students can attest to advances made in cancer research and treatment.

Pictured are Nicole Michalek (left), Matt Hill, a cancer survivor, and Mackenzie Meyer who are heading up this year's fund drive for cancer research, to honor survivors, and to remember those who died from the dreaded disease.

Matt is a survivor, having lost a foot and part of a leg to bone cancer when he was a high school student. Now a third year pharmacy student, Matt remains cancer free. He's beating cancer due to advances in diagnosing the disease and in prosthetics.

In fact, he plans to participate in a half marathon this spring.

Nicole and Mackenzie are interested in raising money for cancer, as well, telling stories of family members and friends who were diagnosed with cancer.

They spoke at a ReStore knowing full well that nearly everyone there had been touched by cancer, either themselves, family, or friends.

How successful have past Ada Relay for Life events been? Very, with $16,000 raised last year.

The all-night event is several months away, but the students are out in the community now to encourage more participation by forming teams and having tables where games are played or items sold with 100 percent of the money going to cancer.

Although sizable funds were raised in past years, the students want more community involvement. As they explained, just because the Relay is held at the ONU Sports Center doesn't mean the event is limited to faculty, staff and students.

Have a 2017 calendar yet? If so, mark March 31 and April 1 to participate.

Ada's Relay for Life begins at 6 p.m. and concludes at 6 a.m. at the Sports Center.

The evening begins with a walk for survivors and caregivers and a memorial to those who passed away, followed by a free meal for survivors and caregivers.
During the American Cancer Society event, there will be live music, games, cookies and pop to buy, and fellowship with others.

To form a team or reserve a game table, call Matt at 740-440-1206, Nicole at 412-304-2622, or Mackenzie at 330-502-0694.