'Great experience'

As the sun sets, things are typically just getting started for Relay For Life, but a few hours in, when the darkness truly hits, Relay grasps at your heartstrings.
It is then, typically at 9 p.m., that all the lights are turned off and the only light that lines the track are those from bags and torches honoring cancer survivors, recognizing caregivers and remembering someone who has lost his or her life to cancer.
The track falls quiet and lonely, but slowly, those in attendance rejoin the walk against cancer as their “Reasons for Relay’ing” are echoed.
Thus, by the time the master of ceremonies gets to the final reason, the track is once again filled, though, this time solemnly.
There are moments of reflection as a family member or friend comes across a bag for a fallen loved one and even hushed tears.
The ceremony is well-known and is highly recognized as one of the more memorable parts of the Relay night.
Relay For Life of Acadia Parish is no different.
“[The ceremony] is a real great experience,” said Luminaria Chair Thelma Fuselier. “For those who haven’t experienced it, (they should) come and try it.
“It’s really moving.”
The bags are white and showcase the names of honorees and are lit by candle inside.
In general, the symbolism is strong, but specifically, the Luminaria Ceremony continues to be one of the biggest emotional draws of Relay For Life each and every year.
As preparations continue for Relay For Life of Acadia Parish 2015, slated for Saturday, Aug. 25, Fuselier is working hard to make sure the track is lined with bags and that everyone that has seen the effects of cancer can properly recognize those who have been afflicted with the disease.
“It’s a way to remember those who have lost the battle,” she said, “and for those going through it, it can be very moving and a healing experience.”
The ceremony will take place once again this year and if you would like to recognize, honor or remember someone, Fuselier is welcoming anyone and everyone to contact her.
Fuselier can be reached by phone at 337-581-7638, or by mail, P.O. Box 134, Morse, LA, 70559.
Payment sent for a Luminaria by check must be made out to the American Cancer Society.
The following information will be needed for the Luminaria, please provide this information with any form of payment sent to Fuselier:
• If your Luminaria is to “Celebrate” (for a survivor), “Remember” (in memory of a deceased one) or “Fight Back” (for a caregiver) and his or her name.
• Total number of Luminarias
• Who is giving the Luminaria, your name, phone number and address.
Relay For Life of Acadia Parish 2015 will be held at the Frog Festival Pavilion at the Rayne Civic Center in Rayne on Saturday, April 25, beginning at 6 p.m.
The Luminaria Ceremony is scheduled to begin at about 9 p.m.