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Concordia Parish Sheriff David Hedrick leads the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of the 29th Annual Relay for Life on May 5 in Vidalia. Members of the Relay for Life committee join him on stage. (Submitted)

Watson Calhoun led the Survivor Lap last Friday, pulled in a wagon by his parents, Melissa Calhoun and Casey Calhoun. (Submitted)

Survivors Elaine Daniels and Keith Darnell participate in the 29th Annual Relay for Life Survivor Lap, which kicked off the event. (Submitted)

Lights from luminaria twinkle on a beautiful Vidalia night at the 29th Relay for Life, each one a reminder of someone’s loved one who battled cancer. (Submitted)

Relay for Life for the Miss Lou has raised more than $60,000 so far this year, Chairperson Denise Davis said. (Submitted)

VIDALIA, La. — With only five months into the year, Relay for Life of the Miss-Lou has raised $60,000 for the fight against cancer.

Hard-working Relay for Life committee members put on a successful 29th annual event May 5 at the Vidalia Municipal Complex. Teams of walkers enjoyed a beautiful sunset and cool breezes for a night many are passionate about.

Little Watson Calhoun, whose battle with a type of brain cancer has gripped the entire community, led the Survivor Lap, always an emotional and poignant event. This year was no exception. One by one, survivors made the first lap around the walk area.

Twenty-three teams turned in $14,600 raised, Relay for Life Chairwomen Denise Davis said. A few teams turned in their funds this week, which are not included in that number.

Wendel Melton was guest speaker for the event, sharing his cancer journey.

“Our survivors enjoyed such a beautiful setting this year that was decorated by Mary Montpelier, Jennifer Freeman and several other volunteers,” Davis said.

Davis said those who would like to make a donation to help this year’s Relay event can do so at relayforlife.org/missloums or by contacting Denise Davis at 318-953-0461.

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