Butterflies released in memory of those lost to cancer

Relay For Life in Christian County is set to take place this Friday, but before that, folks gathered on the steps of the Christian County Justice Center Tuesday afternoon to release butterflies in honor of those who have been lost during their battles with cancer.

There were 100 butterflies released, and Pam Futrell with Relay says those butterflies will now carry their love and messages to those who have gone on, while hopefully acting as a sign of hope for those still battling. She says they don’t consider it a battle lost, as everyone who fights with cancer plays a role in paving the way for more research and a future cure.

Hopkinsville Mayor J.R. Knight and Christian County Judge-Executive Jerry Gilliam read a proclamation in honor of Relay For Life and the many survivors, caretakers and all those who have been impacted by cancer. Judge Gilliam says it’s thanks to organizations like Relay For Life, and of course her own strength and tenacity, that his daughter is a cancer survivor.

Futrell says this isn’t the end of the festivities however, as the big party is set for Friday at the Planters Bank-Jennie Stuart Health Hopkinsville Sportsplex, where the 2025 Relay For Life gets underway at 6 p.m. with food, activities, a Survivor Walk and more is planned to take place.

The money raised by Relay goes back into the community to help fund cancer research, provide support to those currently in their own fight, their families and more. You can find out all you need to know on the Christian County Relay For Life Facebook page.