By Macy Reeves for the FCT

The color purple has long represented Relay for Life in its fight against all cancers. This year, the color inspired the Relay for Life theme, Paint Your World Purple, and Franklin County Relay participants took the painting part literally at the Franklin County Relay for Life Kick-off Party.

In addition to enjoying hors d’oeuvres and receiving critical Relay for Life information, participants in the kick-off were given the chance to paint a ribbon onto canvas, guided along by Jessica Peppers, a local artist. Peppers passed out paints and supplies for all who wanted to paint a ribbon.

“Relay for Life is a way to give people hope – hope that we can find a cure and participate in something bigger than ourselves,” Peppers said.

Community manager Anna Duncan said the kick-off party helps teams get excited and begin the push to raise funds each year.

“Considering the weather and the cold night, it went fantastic. We’ve got new faces, and the energy is good,” said Duncan.

Duncan also took the opportunity at the kick-off to recognize groups and people who go above and beyond to help with Relay for Life:

–       Caring for those with cancer: Saint Paul Missionary Baptist

–       Excellence in helping to prevent cancer: Mrs. Tonya James

–       Excellence in helping to prevent cancer: Pat Montgomery

–       Excellence in helping to prevent cancer: Team Southside Church

Relay for Life will be held May 6, from 6-10 p.m. at the RHS football stadium.