Our Attempt to Make a Difference - Relay For Life

by Linda Steele
(Roaring Spring, PA)

My brother, Jeff Hoover, is a two-time survivor of Hodgkins Disease(Lymphoma). I was a member of the Spring Cove School District team that participated in the Altoona, PA Relay for Life. After serving on the committee for the Cove Relay, my sister-in-law, Joy Hoover and I decided that it was time for our family to become more actively involved with our own team. Thus the Hoover Family team was formed. In the last five years, through the generosity and hard work of our family and friends, we have raised over $50,000 for the ACS. One year Jeff served as the ambassador. We were so proud of him. Because of Jeff and other stricken family members, in our own way we attempt to make a difference. Our homemade soups, potato salad, and gob cake have become legendary and our passionate work for the ACS is evident. At times we disagree, as all families do, but we come together in a united front to do our part to fight back against cancer. Through the laughter and the tears, Relay is the high point of my year. In 2009, with the economy as it is, the Cove Relay raised $157,520 about $20,000 more than our goal. This is quite a feat for a small community! I would encourage anyone to become involved with Relay for Life.