Over 85 residents attended an ice cream social at Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church in downtown West Jefferson on Thursday night to gear up for Ashe County’s Relay for Life event.

According to Ashe County Relay’s media chair, DeAnna Lewis, all age groups were represented at the social as survivors talked about their battle with cancer and spoke to encourage those who are currently fighting the disease.

The actual Relay for Life event will be held next Friday, July 17th, at Ashe County High School.

Lewis said the next morning will feature the inaugural Run for Life 5k.  A 5k run/walk, a 5k competitive run, and a kid’s fun run will all be included in the run.  Interested residents can find more information and even register online at www.AsheRunForLife5k.org.

(Photo courtesy of DeAnna Lewis)