| SMHC
receives Relay for Life award
St. Mary’s Hospital and Clinics received an award from the Clearwater to Salmon River Relay for Life program for their support of this year’s event. Tami Quick and Carolyn Haning presented the plaque to Todd Nida, Chief Administrative Officer, and Lenne Bonner, SMH Chief Financial Officer. 
“St. Mary’s and Clearwater Valley Hospitals supported us not only financially as an Excalibur level sponsor, but they provided a fantastic group of workers,” said Quick. “Being a corporate sponsor means a whole lot more than just handing over a check. St. Mary’s participated at every level.” Quick and Haning have chaired the Relay’s Corporate Sponsorship Committee for the past four years. SMHC’s team garnered the first place trophy for Best Dressed camp and their candidate for Mr. Relay, Gary McEwen, SMHC Physical Therapist, took top honors after a stiff contest emceed by Dr. Teel Bruner. The SMH team was also the second highest for financial contributions donating $5218 for cancer education and research. All proceeds are forwarded to the American Cancer Society. According to Quick, over $53,000 was raised this year with corporate contributions doubling from last year. “St. Gertrude’s Monastery contributed very generously to our campaign,” said Judy DeHaas, SMHC team co-captain. “They also sent a number of walkers who joined our team members on the track. We really appreciate their help and their interest which made the Relay even more powerful.” The local Relay has been held on the third weekend in July for the past four years. Close to 30 teams participated in this year’s overnight event, July 18-19. Friday evening’s events included a survivor’s walk, a luminaria ceremony and a Mr. Relay contest. The goal of each team was to have a member on the track throughout the night. “Most of us have lost a family member or friend to cancer. The Relay is a positive way to help find a cure, to lessen the hurt and focus on our hope for the future. We hope even more people will join us next year,” said Quick. |
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