A number of Disney characters will be seen at Jack Read Park this weekend as the American Cancer Society’s Wish Upon A Star Relay For Life commences Saturday.
The American Cancer Society is a nationwide organization dedicated to curing cancer through intensive research, according to its website.
The event will kick off at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Picayune with the ceremonial survivor walk, a celebration for everyone who’s been affected by cancer.
Then, the Disney themed event will shift gears to Jack Read Park where music, food and games for children and adults will be provided, including a Disney costume contest for boys and girls at 6:30 p.m.
“This is the children’s time to dress up like their favorite Disney character and meet the real Disney stars in person. It’s every kids’ dream,” Lisa Lee, event lead for Pearl River County Relay For Life, said.
Lee has been a part of the annual Relay For Life for the last three years in Pearl River County, which she said is a personal event for her.
In 2005, Lee was volunteering at a Relay For Life event in Greene County when she got a call that her father, who has been battling prostate cancer for 11 years, passed away.
“The Relay For Life serves as a constant reminder for me to help those that have, or know, a loved one who is a cancer patient,” Lee said. “I want nothing more than to help the American Cancer Society find a cure, and all the proceeds from this event go toward that research.”
Without research, a cure will never be found, Lee added, who hears lots of questions as to why the proceeds don’t go to individuals with cancer.
“The funds we collect will benefit everyone in the world that has or will have cancer in the future. This research can help save thousands of lives,” she said.
After the costume contest a prize will be given to a boy and girl with the best costume. Then, a luminara service and the release of sky lanterns will take place at 9 p.m. following the Light Up the Night glow run 5K and fun run. People can register for the runs at Jack Read Park from 12 to 8 p.m. Saturday.
While the 5K and fun run are held, the movie “Tangled” will be playing on a projector screen in Jack Read Park for the children.
“We invite everyone, including Disney enthusiasts, to come and support a cause that can change so many people’s lives,” Lee said.
There is no entry fee for the costume contest. Relay and 5K runners can register at the event prior to the runs for $30 per person.