When cancer struck her family and friends — again and again and again — Amanda Barndt sprang into action.
She got involved with Wood County Relay for Life, which raises money for the American Cancer Society, and is leading this year’s event, which is set for May 20 from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. at the Wood County Fair Pavilion.
“Our event is not a relay at all but rather an all-day event jam-packed with activities the whole family can enjoy,” Barndt said. “We have themed walking laps, we have kids’ games and inflatables, ride on animal scooters, craft show, food, 5K, raffles, auctions and much more planned.”
The goal is to raise $85,000 for cancer research, support and transportation.
“I think we’re on track to do that,” said Barndt, of Bowling Green.
Cancer has struck multiple family and friends. The diagnoses have been pancreatic, leukemia, lymphoma, breast, Ewing’s Sarcoma and throat. In 2021, Barndt decided to get involved.
“I, very much on a whim, said we’re going to have a Relay for Life team this year,” Barndt recalled. “We had an absolute blast and I got even more involved with the ‘22 relay.”
She was asked to chair the relay in 2023. Even though she’s very involved in the Wood County Fair and is president of the Wood County Farm Bureau, Barndt said she welcomed adding the responsibility to her full plate.
“I don’t regret it, it’s going really well,” she said.
Her leadership has already led to a change of venue for the relay.
It had been held outside at the fairgrounds. When the area was double-booked in 2022, Barndt asked the Wood County Fair Foundation if the relay could be held in the Pratt Pavilion.
“They let us use the pavilion in ‘22 and it was the best thing that could have happened,” Barndt said.
There are refrigerators to keep the donated pies cool, electricity to run the kids’ games, and a roof to ward off rain. The luminaries, which remember those affected by cancer, can still be lit.
There are also specific spots for the craft show and raffle baskets.
“Everything has a really well-defined area,” Barndt said.
There will also be a 5K during Relay for Life, and a fun walk. Tickets are needed in advance for the chicken dinner.
The luminaries will be lit at 9:15 p.m.
“It’s a little somber … but definitely a good time of reflection,” she said.
Barndt invited anyone to join in the fun and see what the relay is all about.
“Come and take it all in,” she said.
She also urged those going through cancer treatment to reach out for help through the cancer society.
“You’re not alone, there are resources out there,” Barndt said.
