Sheppard helps fight cancer Published June 18, 2013 By Kimberly Goff 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Nine Sheppard relay teams participated at the annual Relay for Life held in Wichita Falls June 7 in an effort to raise money for cancer research. The Relay for Life, held at McNeil Junior High School included teams from around Wichita Falls including the 362nd Training Squadron team "Crew Dogs for the Cure", a team that rose over $8,000 last year for the fundraising event. Combined, the Sheppard teams raised over $5,700 for cancer research this year. Brenda Walker, Relay for Life volunteer coordinator and 82nd Training Wing Money Warriors team captain, said that it's great that the military members come out to support the community. "The different branches, such as the Air Force and Navy, they pull together," Walker said. Kathy Rodriguez, Relay for Life Committee Chair for the past three years, enjoys the presence of the military volunteers. "It's another way to recognize how many people are touched by cancer," Rodriguez said. "Since the airmen in training are so young and seem invincible, they realize that cancer can affect anybody." Senior Airman Abraham Benabidas, member of the Air Force Sergeants Association team, has volunteered for the event since he joined the Air Force four years ago. "It inspires me that these people come out to support friends, family members and the community," Benabidas said. David Whiting, a fifteen-year cancer survivor, said it wouldn't be the same without the support of the base. "They are a big part of the community and anything they do is valuable to Wichita Falls," Whiting said. At the end of the closing ceremony, approximately $66,749 had been raised in the effort to fight cancer.