Ellie Grace Volk

July 28, 3pm:  We had an amazing time on Friday night at the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. Thank you so much to all who came out to support us and spend time with us.  We loved seeing you!

We started the night with a survivor's lap - anyone who has survived cancer took the first lap.  My dad - who won a battle with leukemia 6 years ago - came from South  Dakota to take that lap with Ellie.  Here they are before the lap.  Everyone stood around the track and clapped for all of the survivors.  It was very moving.

We then spent the rest of the evening talking with friends, walking, eating and celebrating life.  At 10pm, they lit the lumineries that lined the walking path. 

Here is our family as Ellie lit one of her lumineries.  It was a beautiful sight to see all of the illuminated bags lining the entire park.

We then all took a lap in silence to remember those who did not win their fight with cancer.  It was very emotional to see all of the bags of those who are no longer with us.  During this quiet lap, Ellie fell asleep as my brother carried her.   

 My brothers, Jim & Jeff (shown here with Ellie) and Tom's sister Sue stayed with us late into the night.  My brothers finally left about 2am.  Sue stayed with us all night.  As much as I wanted to stay awake all night, Sue and I did take a small nap at 4am.  Tom was able to last all night as he walked in silence.  He woke us for the closing ceremonies where they let butterflies go as we watched the sunrise. 

The entire event was amazing.  We had a roller coaster of emotions - from tears to laughter.  We were especially touched by all who came out to walk with us or just visit our tent.  We met people who have been following our website, but didn't know us.  Many decided to come out to meet Ellie and celebrate with us.  We also had dear friends come out and support us.  We were so amazed by the kindness and generousity of those we know and those we have just met.  

Here are some more pictures from the event.

     The best news of all is that we raised over  $3000 for the American Cancer Society!  That is in only 2 weeks time.  We are so thankful for the generous contributions of: Kenneth Arington, John & Rhonda Bills, Jim Booher, Jeff Booher, Kathy & Jim Booher, Traci Chapek, Amy Descombaz, Angie Dougherty, Britt & Megan Ehlers, Lewayne & Nancy Erickson, Sara & Mark Fahleson, Jan & Craig Frenzen, Jeff & Jenny Frerichs, Val & Nate Geisert, Melanie & Marvin Gutz, B. Hartley, Chris Hartley, David Hartley, Kelly & Todd Hedlund, Sue & Buzz Herman, Brian & Veronica Jakub, Judy Kilday, Julie & Curtis Klein, Katie Martin, Melony Martin, Patricia Meyer, Kaye Otten, Michelle Pester, Derran Porath, Dan & Cathy Scholl, Addie Scheve, Shawn & Jody Schulenberg, Elizabeth Sickel, Jennifer & Ray Smith, Mike & Susan Staab, Mark & Tracy Stinson & girls, Amy Stowell, Tracy Swan, Amy Swanson, Kathie Tilts, Della Tschetter, Harriet Turner, Kelly Volk, Sue Volk, Connie White, Katie Wrede and the anonymous business that contributed so generously. 

We are humbled at your giving hearts.  You have truly overwhelmed us and we are thankful!

"And may rich blessings from our Lord Jesus Christ be with you, every one." 1 Thessalonians 5:28