By Jason Evans

Staff Reporter

jevans@thepccourier.com

EASLEY — Easley officials recognized the efforts of Pickens County Relay for Life team members as they help to raise money that will fund the search for a cure for cancer.

Mayor Larry Bagwell recognized members of the Pickens County Relay for Life team during last week’s city council meeting. Bagwell signed a proclamation in conjunction with Relay for Life’s “Paint the Town Purple” awareness and fundraising campaign, declaring April as “Paint the Town Purple Month” in the City of Easley.

Jason Evans/Courier

Members of the Pickens County Relay for Life committee were on hand at last Monday night’s Easley City Council meeting as Mayor Larry Bagwell declared April “Paint the Town Purple” Month in the city.

Money raised during Paint the Town Purple campaign supports the American Cancer Society’s mission of saving lives and creating a world with less cancer and more birthdays, the proclamation states.

“We’re going to paint the county purple,” said Baptist Easley Hospital CEO Michael Batchelor, the Pickens County Relay for Life committee chairman.

The Pickens County team’s goal is to raise $75,000, he said.

“We’re going to raise over $100,000, I believe,” Batchelor said.

Historically, at this point in the campaign, the local effort has averaged about $8,000 in sponsorships, he said.

“Right now, we’re a little over $25,000 just in sponsorships,” Batchelor said.

In Pickens County alone, more than 700 new cancer patients are identified every year, he said.

Any community member can go into any Wells Fargo bank branch or drive-thru to donate to Pickens County Relay for Life through April 30.

“We’re going to achieve this goal,” Batchelor said.

The Pickens County Relay for Life walk will be held April 30 at Easley High School.

Batchelor is offering a personal incentive for the fundraising campaign.

“If we achieve that goal, I’m going to shave my head,” he said.

Councilman Chris Mann had a suggestion for Bagwell.

“I think if they reach that goal, you should shave your head, too,” Mann told the mayor.