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OAKES, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that this year, there will be an estimated 1.9 million new cancer cases diagnosed and 609,360 cancer deaths in the United States. Organizations such as the Dickey County Relay for Life hope to raise funds to support ACS and those affected locally.

Mary Lou Sundby says in years past, they would hold a walk to gather and raise money for the American Cancer Society. When COVID struck in 2020, they shifted to hold a telethon on KDDR 1220 AM/100.3 FM the Tornado in Oakes.

Sundby says they are also selling luminarias for loved ones. The cost is $5 and can be picked up at Starion in Oakes, DRN & Dakota Plains Credit Union in Ellendale. They’ll then line main street in a way to show solidarity.

While they’re goal is set at $40,000, Sundby says any amount donated counts.

Scheduled early risers include Brianna Arrowood, Judy German, Rose Sell, Nancy Hagen to kick off the telethon. That’ll be followed by teams of DRN/ReadiTech, Oakes Public School’s Honor Society, CHI Oakes Hospital, Oakes Public School’s Student Council and founding it with the Hope Brigade.

“Although each team will take one hour, we will man the phones until they
quit ringing,” Sundby added.

Sundby says they’ll also be auctioning 20 items including baskets, gift certificates, breast cancer mink blanket, and more to help raise money as well. The auction will start prior to the telethon on the Dickey County Relay for Life Facebook page.

To make a donation during the telethon on Wednesday, Sept. 21, you can call 701-742-2187. You can also become a sponsor and be recognized for your support by contacting Mary Lou Sundby at 701-210-0613.

Listen to a full interview with Mary Lou Sundby below: