Spa Day boosts Relay for Life fund raising
Beverly Crowe, a breast cancer survivor, gets a facial Monday from University of New Mexico-Gallup cosmetology student Paris Begay during the Relay for Life Spa day, a fund raiser to help support the American Cancer Society. [Photo by Jeff Jones / Independent]

By Leslie Wood
Staff writer

GALLUP — Gallup resident Linda Herrera and her granddaughter enjoyed pedicures Monday afternoon in preparation for their upcoming vacation as the UNM-Gallup Cosmetology Department offered spa services at discounted prices.

Monday’s spa day was a fund raiser for the Relay for Life and was the first fund raising activity for the June 20 Relay for Life in Gallup.

Pedicures, manicures and facials were offered at a minimal cost, and proceeds went toward the relay. Relay for Life raises funds for American Cancer Society projects that include research, education, advocacy and services for cancer patients. Locally, organizers hope to raise $100,000 toward the cause.

“This is for a great cause,” Herrera said of the day devoted to beauty.

Herrera’s daughter attended UNM’s Cosmetology school, which elevated her confidence in the students’ work.

“My daughter went here, so I know they’re good,” Herrera said.

Tonya Lonjose, a second semester cosmetology student, said the fund raiser was mandatory for some cosmetology students, but she doesn’t mind the hands-on experience.
“It gives us a lot of practice,” Lonjose said.

She said pedicures are the most popular service throughout the day.

Linda Shelton, event chairwoman, said the spa day was organized by the Ups and Downs team, which consists of several cancer survivors. Relay for Life participants divide themselves into teams to raise money for the American Cancer Society prior to June’s event. The teams that raise the most money will be awarded prizes. Team members also walk laps around the Gallup Sports Complex track during the actual event.

The first lap is walked by cancer survivors.

“They really are the stars of the show,” Shelton said of survivors.

So far, 35 teams have registered for this year’s event.

Organizers would like to see at least 40 teams participate.

The Ups and Downs will host another fund raiser this spring entitled the Birdhouse Project. Basic wooden birdhouses will be distributed to local organizations and artists to decorate. The houses will then be auctioned off during the May Arts Crawl at a location to be announced later. The proceeds from this project will also benefit Relay for Life.

Information: Margo Patterson, 722-4383.