The Freeborn County Relay for Life Committee has announced its honored cancer survivors and caregivers for the 2011 Relay for Life.

Each year, the survivors and caregivers share their stories of how cancer has affected their lives and serve as an inspiration to others who may be going through similar experiences. They also speak at the Relay for Life event, typically in August, which is the local yearly signature event for the American Cancer Society.

The 2011 honored cancer survivors are Georgia Godtland and Todd Schumaker.

Godtland, of Albert Lea, had renal cell carcinoma that spread to her esophagus and neck.

Schumaker, of Albert Lea, had a brain tumor that spread to his bones 8 1/2 years ago.

The honored caregivers are Janelle Rasmussen, Kevin Godtland and Jill Harmdierks, who are Godtland’s children.

Look to the Tribune closer to the relay for more detailed stories about these people.

Official Freeborn County Relay for Life Day

Earlier this month, the Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved making the third Monday in May of every year as the official Freeborn County Relay for Life Day.

That day, local Relay for Life leaders kick off their fundraising campaign for the year.

Local Relay for Life Chairwoman Vicki Manges said the goal of the Relay for Life is to create a world where people survive cancer so they can celebrate another birthday.

In 2010 in Freeborn County, Relay for Life funds supported 33 cancer patients with services such as lodging, transportation, information, patient programs and financial assistance.

Of those people helped, 18 were newly diagnosed with cancer and 11 were uninsured or under-insured.