Gary Peffley may be a cancer survivor, but he is not done fighting cancer.
Diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2009, Peffley was given six months to live. Today, Peffley is cancer free and volunteers with the American Cancer Society to advocate for events that raise money for cancer research and aid cancer patients and survivors with various programs.
But the fight to conquer cancer is not one that can be done alone. Peffley advocates for residents to get on board with Relay for Life, which last year garnered an approximate $61,000 in funds.
The Relay for Life Kickoff event will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at the Niles District Library, 620 E. Main St. The kickoff will include games, food and a chance for residents to join Relay for Life teams.
This year, the Relay for Life will take place from 10 a.m. to midnight July 15 at Niles High School, 1441 Eagle St.
Peffley will also be taking donations at the kickoff for the Hope Lodge wish list. The Hope Lodge in Grand Rapids provides a place for cancer patients a place to live that is close to a treatment center.
Donations that are needed include single serving food items and general supplies such as paper towels, dish soap, bottled water and liquid laundry detergent.
The fight against cancer is close to home for many residents in Berrien County. In 2016, the American Cancer Society reported that there were 1,007 new cancer diagnoses in Berrien County. Of those diagnosed, 390 of those cases were expected to be fatal.
Even before his diagnosis, Peffley dedicated his time as a volunteer to the American Cancer Society. In that time, he has served as a leader to the Cass County Relay for Life and continued his volunteer work for the Niles-Buchanan area.
For Peffley’s part, finding new ways to draw people to the event and gain more support is his mission.
Last year at the Cass County relay, Peffley found a skydiver who would be able to quite literally drop in on the event.
During the Relay for Life, those who wish to band together to fight cancer walk in solidarity around the track to raise money for the American Cancer Society. While the relay takes place, various fundraisers take in money to support the cause.
As a cancer survivor, Peffley said the funds mean a lot, but seeing the community come together to support cancer patients and survivors is priceless.
“Well it personally warms my heart,” Peffley said. “We are living in a generation where people move too fast. I realize people have their own lives but paying it forward has big benefits.”
This year, Peffley hopes to raise more than $61,000.
A number of programs seek to support and aid cancer patients and cancer survivors in Berrien County through the America Cancer Society, which offers rides to treatment, housing near treatment and the opportunity to be part of a number of survivor support groups. For more information contact 1-800-ACS-2345.
Those interested in contributing to the Hope Lodge wish list, but are unable to attend the kickoff can call Peffley at (231) 721-5032.
“Every little dollar helps,” Peffley said.