Despite COVID, 2020 Relay for Life a Success

Despite COVID-19, the 2020 Effingham County Relay for Life turned out to be highly successful.

Relay Chairman Ron Mietzner said this year's event raised $66,444.89 for the battle against cancer.

Due to concerns about coronavirus disease, the usual Relay event was scrapped. Instead, much online footage was shared during the span of time when the event is usually held at Teutopolis Junior High School. The video footage shared testimonials from those who have won the battle and those who are in the fight, as well as memorials to those who have lost the battle. 

The Survivors Lap was replaced by a parade through the streets of Teutopolis, and the Luminaria Lap was changed out for one year by a display in front of the junior high building that allowed visitors to drive by and see the luminaria purchased in honor of or in memory of those dealing with cancer.

Mietzner said he was "proud as punch" with the total raised, saying, "We didn't even do a fundraiser!"