One on One: Suzanne Schuber, Volunteer for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life 
by Karen Gibbs
Suzanne Schuber lives in Mandeville with her husband, David, and daughters Katy, 19, and Rebecca, 13. An active volunteer for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Suzanne has served on her Relay team’s development committee for the past several years. Her passion for the cause, however, goes beyond simple community service
How did you first get involved with Relay for Life?
Months before my first Relay, God had laid it on my heart to participate in community service. Later, in May 2000, I attended my first Relay as a chaperone for my daughter, Katy. I had no clue as to what Relay for Life was about. I stayed all night—my daughter was having so much fun she didn’t want to leave. By dawn, I was totally convinced that this was what God had in mind.
You’ve said that your motivation for your involvement changed after that first year. Why?
Before the next year’s Relay, my sister Jean was diagnosed with breast cancer. She Relayed as a survivor. Suddenly, Relay had become more personal. In 2004, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, had surgery and chemo. In 2005, Jean and I Relayed together—as survivors. Last year, my mother-in-law was diagnosed with lung cancer and my sister-in-law with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
How is your health now?
Right now, I am cancer free. I get my blood tested every four months, and it is always a relief to hear that all is well.
What’s the most important thing for you about participating in Relay for Life?
Relay gives me a way to fight back against cancer—all cancers. And it gives me hope that some day there will be a cure. Jean and I know we have to continue to Relay until they find a cure. We each have two daughters. They are genetically at risk, and we do not want them to grow up knowing cancer as a threat to their lives.
So many people volunteer to work for Relay for Life. Who stands out in your mind?
Susie O’Mahoney and Phil Beverly. They have been deeply involved for more than five years as chairs/co-chairs, especially with the Covington and Mandeville Relays. Enthusiastic, humble and fun to work with, their commitment helped give us the Relays we have today.
You mentioned your favorite part of Relay is the Luminary Ceremony. What happens then?
For a $10 donation, a person can dedicate a luminary in honor or in memory of someone with cancer. These are lit and placed around the track. Lights are turned off, and activities stop.
Everyone gathers in the center of the field in silence. Photos of cancer survivors or those who lost the battle to cancer flash across a big screen. On stage, the ceremony begins to “Celebrate” survivors and “Remember” those who have lost the fight. Then, we Rally to “Fight Back” until there is a cure. We have prayer, speakers, a soloist, and bagpipers who lead everyone back to the track. It’s touching and joyful—and it brings home the reason we Relay.
How can someone help with Relay for Life?
Attend a Relay. (Visit cancer.org for a Relay in your area.) Join our committee—there are many ways to volunteer, and you can work as much or as little as you wish. The absolute best thing is to be part of a Relay team. Call me at 504-858-4869 to find out how.
