WELLS — “I get goosebumps thinking about it. I cannot describe it.”

This is how Heidi Webber describes the Luminaria Ceremony, a moment in Relay for Life when the track is lined with illuminated paper bags with messages of support or names of loved ones and participants are encouraged to silently remember those who have lost a battle with cancer.

Webber, who lives with her husband in Wells, was first diagnosed with stage four esophageal cancer in 2006. It came as a total shock ”“ the cancer was very rare for people her age and she didn’t have insurance, but she said her ability to adjust quickly and accept challenges guided her through a dark moment.

“I said: ”˜you tell me what to do and I’ll do it,’” Webber said to her doctors when she heard her diagnosis. She says her philosophy is to “stay positive through the whole (experience).”

She was able to claim disability insurance and achieved remission through a new clinical trial chemotherapy, but Relay for Life became a constant in her life: she has done it every year since.

Relay for Life works through teamwork ”“ participants raise money for each team, and at least one team member walks around the track at all times, creating an all-day (and night) relay. Throughout the event, the relayers listen to a number of speeches, celebrate the survivors, caregivers, and those they have lost, as well as get to know other people affected by cancer that are in similar situations. This year, the event will go to midnight at Wells High School Track on June 20 and the theme is “Carnival,” with the games and food to match.

Webber found her team at her job in the Sign Design & Space Planning department of Cabela’s. Her coworkers were very eager to support her any way they could, which enabled her to create a team that calls itself “Cabela’s Hunting for a Cure,” which has been raising money for Relay for Life since 2009. Once Webber started telling more people about her team, the events manager got Cabela’s to sponsor their gear. The company has also donated products for the silent auction ”“ including a kayak ”“ to Relay.

When her cancer came back in 2010, one of her coworkers immediately assembled all the managers, who shaved their heads or beards to support her.

“They are unbelievable, I can’t even express how supportive they have been,” Webber said.

After more treatment, she achieved remission again. However, this summer, she heard more bad news ”“ she was diagnosed with Stage One breast cancer. She says this time around has been harder ”“ she just wrapped up the first round of treatment, which was different and difficult to get used to, but she uses her honesty to stay connected to people around her.

“If you want to ask, I’m very open about it. It helps to stay positive,” Webber said. “I hate hearing ”˜oh, I’m sorry.’ I’m getting my strength from people saying I’m a warrior.”

She says that the best way to understand how Relay for Life works is to attend.

“Everyone should go and see,” Webber said. “It will take your breath away.”