Hampden woman set to lead Relay for Life

OLD TOWN – One family in the Greater Bangor area knows the effects of cancer all too well. Lisa Hatch of Hampden, who runs a preschool gymnastics program and is a former town councilor, was diagnosed with breast cancer just over three years ago.

The following year, her father was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a mastectomy. Last July, Hatch lost a best friend, Terry, to breast cancer. Her brother was later diagnosed with skin cancer. Finally, also in 2002, Hatch lost her sister, Donna Ireland, to cancer after a long and courageous battle.

On Friday, May 16, at Old Town High School, Hatch will be honorary co-chairwoman of the Relay For Life of the Greater Bangor Area. During the relay’s opening ceremonies, she will walk the first lap around the track with cancer survivors from across the Bangor area, including her father and some other members of her family members.

The survivor’s lap begins at 6 p.m. and local cancer survivors are invited to participate. Those who wish to do so may call the American Cancer Society at 989-0332 to sign up for the special survivor’s ceremony.

Hatch has previously participated in the Old Town Relay For Life. This year, however, as honorary co-chairwoman, she will also be walking in memory of her sister and her best friend.

Hatch is known for her kind support of others diagnosed with cancer. Her good friend Amy Williams of Brewer related an experience during a recent outing to the hair salon.

“Lisa overheard another customer tell her hairdresser that she would be losing her hair soon as a result of upcoming chemotherapy treatments,” Williams stated. “Lisa made a point of telling the woman about her own cancer treatment and hair loss, and reassured her that her hair would grow back. The look of hope on this woman’s face was amazing!”

Jae Libby-Folster of Enfield is the other honorary co-chairwoman. She is a survivor of Paget’s disease of the breast.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.