Making Strides Against Cancer: Our Clinic’s Relay For Life Day!
In the world of occupational health, Performance Occupational Health Services is all about business – keeping workplaces safe and employees healthy. But this year, we added a new chapter to our story, one that took us out of the clinic and onto the track.
POHS participated in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life event. This is a cause that is near and dear to our hearts – our clinic founder and owner, Charise, is a two-time cancer survivor.
Our Founder and Owner, Charise Brenes
Charise turned 50 this year. She met her 5-year milestone for stage 4 metastatic vulvar cancer and, in December, will be two years post-stem cell transplant for acute myeloid leukemia. As you can imagine, participating in this relay was particularly significant for all of us here at POHS.
For those who may not know, Relay for Life isn't your typical charity run – it's a community-driven event that raises funds and awareness for cancer research and support. Initially, we had set a goal of $1500 to meet for donations. In the end, we succeeded in raising almost $4000!
This money will go towards things like cancer research, but also services you may not have considered; things like access to quality wigs for those experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy treatments, or counseling services for family members who could use emotional support.
POHS participated in both Clark County and Cowlitz County’s Relays to support our two clinic locations.
This year’s relay for Clark County took place in our beautiful Esther Short Park, in downtown Vancouver Washington. The park is filled with old-growth trees, which give a shady relief to its occupants on warm days. And it was a warm day for this marathon!
In the center of the park is a stage area, where the Relay hosts would make announcements for the themed laps of the hour and where several bands performed live music throughout the day.
We had raffle tickets for sale at our booth for a basket of POHS goodies, as well as free swag and refreshments.
Lining the track were many white paper lanterns (luminarias), lovingly decorated, and dedicated to those who had been lost to cancer, those who were currently battling the disease, and those who had beaten it. That evening, after the sun had set, these lanterns emitted a soft glow from the candles inside. There was a moment of silence to remember the loved ones these lanterns are devoted to.
Luminarias decorated by POHS staff.
We want to express our deepest thanks to everyone who supported us along the way, whether by joining our team, donating, or simply cheering us on. Your collective efforts have made a significant impact, not just on the fight against cancer but on our hearts as well.
Thank you for sharing our Relay for Life experience, and we look forward to the next event!
