Crowns, Community, and a Cause: Bibb County Pageant Raises Funds in Fight Against Cancer
By Reporter: Candace Johnson
Bibb County’s annual “Miss Relay for Life” Pageant brought crowns and compassion together on April 11 at Cahawba Christian Academy, raising more than $1,000 for the American Cancer Society.
The event, open to kids of all ages, rewarded participants not only for stage presence but for their fundraising efforts. Contestants who raised at least $100 received a HOPE Club T-shirt, while the top fundraiser earned the title of Miss Sponsorship Queen.
Winners were recognized across several age divisions:
Boys Division:
Isaac Bigham — Best Smile, Best Eyes, Overall Winner
Girls Division:
Ages 1–2:
Vivienne Gunter — Overall Winner, Best Smile
Adalynne Doyle — 1st Place
Wilder Kate Hannah — Photogenic, 2nd Alternate (Queen of Hope Jr., $175 raised)
Alaia Oniel — Best Dress, 3rd Alternate
Willow Smith — Best Eyes
Ages 3–4:
Lydia Gunter — Overall Winner, Best Smile, Photogenic, Best Eyes
Kali Johnson — Best Dress, 1st Alternate
Ages 5–7:
McKenzie Doyle — Overall Winner, Best Dress
Addison Carter — Photogenic, Best Eyes, 1st Alternate
Rowan Coffin — Best Smile, 2nd Alternate
Ages 8–10:
Avaliegh Fisher — Winner
Adlee Holifield — Photogenic, 1st Alternate (Queen of Hope Sr., $400 raised)
Carley Stallings — Best Smile, 3rd Alternate
Raelynn Ledgerwood — Best Dress
Charliegh Bright — Best Eyes
Candyce Beams — 2nd Alternate (Princess of Hope, $200 raised)
Krislyn Johnson — Miss Congeniality
Ages 10–13:
McKenzie Ledgerwood — Overall Winner (Best Smile, Dress, Eyes)
Paisley Johnson — 1st Alternate
Ryliegh Downing — Overall Winner (Best Smile, Best Eyes)
Nevaeh Johnson — Best Dress, 1st Alternate
The pageant serves as a signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, supporting cancer research, survivors, and those currently battling the disease.
WBRC 6 News reporter Shane Trail, who emceed the event, shared a personal connection to the cause. His stepfather was diagnosed with thyroid cancer several years ago.
“For me to be able to come out to raise money for people in similar circumstances, that meant a lot to me,” Trail said.
He emphasized the importance of community support in difficult times. “No one is an island, and no one can do something on their own, including battling cancer. We’re all affected by this, and we’re going to get through it together.”
While the pageant marked a successful kickoff, organizers say the effort continues. The main Relay for Life event is scheduled for May 2 at 2 p.m. at Heritage Park, featuring performances from local groups, including the Bibb County High School Band, Color Guard, and cheerleaders, and community performers, along with testimonies from cancer survivors.
Community members are still encouraged to donate and participate as Bibb County continues its united fight against cancer.
