Relaying hope

Allen County Relay for Life marked its 30th year Saturday at Riverside Park, raising more than $32,000 for the American Cancer Society.

By TIM STAUFFER, REGISTER MANAGING EDITOR

June 22, 2026 - 3:20 PM

Brian Donovan, Sherry Donovan, David Donovan, Edna Donovan, Tabitha Smooth and Brad Lavin participate in Saturday’s caregiver lap, where cancer survivors are joined by caregivers to honor those who support them. Photo by Tim Stauffer / Iola Register

Allen County Relay for Life held its 30th annual relay Saturday in the Riverside Park Community Building. The event raised over $32,000 for the American Cancer Society, with more donations likely to come in the coming days, said organizer Edna Donovan. About 20 cancer survivors along with their friends and family attended the survivor dinner. The annual event has raised funds to fight cancer since 1996.