On June 4, Villa St. Benedict, a continuum care community in Lisle, held their Cancer Walk in support for the American Cancer Society's "Relay For Life," a non-profit organization that supports cancer patients and funding research. The walk occurred on Villa St. Benedict's 47 acre grounds. In honor of the walk this year, a banner was created where residents and staff could sign names of loves ones who are currently fighting cancer, admire the survivors, or honor those who have been taken. The residents, staff, and community raised over $3,900 for Relay for Life.
The community came together to create a great event for everyone. Kindness rocks were also hand painted by residents and staff with words to lift up cancer patients; these rocks were donated to cancer treatment offices to give to patients to hold during their treatment. Residents and staff made yard signs which were spread out along the pathways so the walkers could be encouraged by the words of support. Students from Benet Academy volunteered to help guide memory care residents in their wheelchairs along the walk. Sister Irene from the Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart started the walk with a prayer for all the people who have been affected by cancer. A representative from the American Cancer Society attended the walk and talked about the importance of fundraising for research, education, advocacy, and health equity.
