Montgomery County's Relay for Life Selects Honorary Co-Chairs for event

Montgomery County’s Relay for Life event will be held June 19 at 6 p.m. in Fountain Square Park in Red Oak. The event is held to raise funds for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer.

To honor those who have fought cancer and won, honorary chairpersons were selected from each of the larger communities in Montgomery County. Amy Mauderly will be representing the community of Villisca. Steve Mainquist was selected to represent Stanton. Ralph and Ida Mae England will represent Red Oak.

Amy Mauderly was born and raised in the Villisca area. When she was 16, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease. She was successful and won that battle.

However, in September of 2008, Amy was diagnosed with breast cancer. With children and a husband, this fight took on a whole different tone. According to Amy “every day is a gift” and fighting to live for her kids was first and foremost in her mind. As of the printing of this article, Amy is cancer-free and enjoying life to the fullest.

Steve Mainquist lives on a farm near Stanton where he grew up.

Steve was diagnosed with cancer in March 2008. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy to deal with some tumors that were discovered in his liver.

He is very appreciative for the positive outlook of his wife, Sheila. He is also very grateful for his friends especially those who have fought cancer and won.

He said it is very comforting to receive positive comments from friends who call who have survived cancer. This is the positive reinforcement he needs to keep him going and he looks forward to seeing everyone on June 19 in Red Oak for Relay for Life.

Ralph and Ida Mae England have lived in Red Oak for what seems like forever. They have been involved in the First Christian Church, Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and numerous other worthy organizations.

Recently, Ida Mae entered into hospice because of the toll the fight against cancer has taken on her frail frame. Ralph has been by her side every step of the way. As of the printing of this article, Ralph and Ida Mae have every intention of riding one lap around the square during the survivor’s lap. Ralph requests that everyone keep Ida Mae in their prayers.

When asked what keeps him gong during this difficult time Ralph responded emphatically “our faith in God”.

This years event kicks off with the Survivor Dinner at 6 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church. If you haven’t already, RSVP for the dinner to Meredith at U.S. Bank by calling 623-4828. The event on the square will conclude at midnight. There will be a candlelight vigil held passed midnight in the lobby of the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital.