Father proud of daughter at Relay for Life

Jennifer Rutkoski, in blue cap, carries the Relay for Life banner during the Survivors Lap at the Westlake High gym on May 30. Photo by Victor Rutkoski

We took part in the Westshore Relay for Life on May 30. Our daughter Jennifer just finished 6-1/2 months of chemotherapy for colon cancer. She’s been such a strong lady. When she found out she had cancer and was going to have chemo, she didn’t complain or feel sorry for herself, she just said, “Well now I can walk in the Relay for Life.” She not only walked the Survivors Lap, she led it carrying the banner.

I had made it seven months with no tears, but they flowed during the march listening to Celine Dion singing “I’m Alive,” as Jennifer led the survivors walk. I can truly say there were no dry eyes in the house. My wife, Diane, asked me if her mascara was running and I said I couldn’t see – my eyes were so full of tears.