Octavia Browder Walks the Talk

At Cenpatico we say we Inspire Hope. Cenpatico Contract Implementation Manager Octavia Browder is proof of that with her work with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

“Cancer is a worldwide epidemic,” said Browder. “If it hasn’t affected your life in some way, it will.”

Cancer has affected Browder’s life. Two years ago, her mother was diagnosed with Colon Cancer; a disease that runs in her family. After a year long battle, she passed away.

During her mother’s struggle, Browder received an e-mail from The American Cancer Society. There she learned more about the Relay, the Society’s annual signature activity. Browder decided it was time for her to do more and take a stand…or in this case a walk against Cancer.

The Relay for Life is in its 25th year. It started in 1985 by Dr. Gordy Klatt, a Tacoma, Washington surgeon who decided to travel around a track for 24 hours in order to raise awareness for Cancer. Since then the Relay has become a nationwide event with over 3.5 million participants annually. While Relays may differ from city to city, there are a few features that are the same. One is that each relay is an overnight event up to 24 hours in length. The color purple is used as the color of inspiration and each team is asked to have at least one team member on the track at all times.

“The symbol for the Relay is a half moon/half sun with a star to symbolize that Cancer doesn’t sleep and neither do the relayers,” said Browder. “From the dawn of a person having Cancer throughout the night we keep fighting.”

The Relay is more than just walk. It’s a celebration of those who have battled and survived Cancer and a remembrance for loved ones lost to the disease. Most Relays open with a “Survivors’ Lap” where those who have battled Cancer walk around the track. There is also a Luminaria Ceremony where lighted bags decorated with the names of those who have fought or lost the battle with Cancer are placed on the ground and a moment of silent remembrance is taken. Most relays end with a Closing Ceremony where everyone takes one final lap together.

For the past two years Browder has put together a team of family and friends to honor her mother. In order to raise money for her team, Browder passed out Luminary Bags, wrapped Christmas presents in the Mall, and other activities to raise awareness. While no set amount of money is needed to participate, the American Cancer Society sets a goal of $500 for each team and $100 for each person. Many in the community donate more than just money. “For our walk there will be free food, silent auctions, and bands playing throughout the relay to keep us up and motivated,” said Browder.

Her mother’s passing has also opened her eyes to get checked herself. She and her sister continue to get check-ups to make sure they stay healthy and can detect any problems before they start.

“Cancer is year round,” said Browder. “Even if you miss the Relay in your area, you can still help the fight to find a cure.”

Click to learn more about the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. To support Browder’s team check out her team page.

This entry is filed under Close Up.