When I read the letter "Cancer event sidetracked," which was published on May 9, I thought Joyce Byers must never have attended the Relay for Life sponsored by Knoch High School. If she had, I thought, she would have witnessed a coming-together of the Saxonburg community.

I have attended the Knoch Relay for Life for the last three years. Each year I have gone home in awe of the experience.

During school hours, students ranging from kindergarten through Grade 12 walk throughout the day as the high school student council members prepare the entertainment, games and activities for the evening ceremonies. There is a sense of community spirit as many start arriving after work to walk the track.

Before the "survivor lap," a cancer survivor speaks. It always is inspiring to hear the person's story and words of wisdom.

Those who are not teary-eyed by then will be as they watch the group of cancer survivors take their lap.

The evening comes to an end with the lighting of luminaries. They are lit in honor of someone who is battling cancer or who has survived cancer, or in memory of a loved one.

The student council members arrange the luminaries on the bleachers to spell out HOPE. As the luminaries are lit, a crowd forms in the middle of the field and the word HOPE comes alive on the bleachers.

It is an amazing experience to witness and, once again, people will be reaching into their pockets for a tissue to dry their eyes.

Through the hard work of many high school students and a few dedicated teachers, the Knoch Relay for Life has been a rewarding experience for all involved. Thanks to their efforts, this event is well-organized and reaches out to the Saxonburg community.

In the three years that I have attended the Knoch Relay for Life, I never have seen a "personal agenda" from any teacher — only a love for the Knoch students and the community.

I am thankful my kids have had the opportunity to work at and attend this event. The experience is priceless.

Those who never have experienced a Relay for Life should consider walking the track at Knoch High School on May 21. No team or entrance fee is required.

All proceeds from the luminaries, a T-shirt sale and the concession stand go to the American Cancer Society.