More than 900 came out to help American Cancer Society fight cancer Participants at this year's American Cancer Society Relay For Life in Spencerport, held June 6-7, did more than just walk circles around the track. They became part of a national movement that has raised over $1 billion for the fight against cancer. More than 900 participants took turns moving around the Spencerport High School track overnight to honor cancer patients, survivors and caregivers who have battled cancer. Event participants helped the American Cancer Society raise over $75,000 during the fourth annual event. Throughout the night, the crowd participated in moving ceremonies to honor the cancer survivors and caregivers in their lives. The first lap of the night was taken by 84 cancer survivors in celebration of their victory over cancer. And at nightfall, over 1,700 candles lit up the night during an emotional luminaria service. "The American Cancer Society is so appreciative of the overwhelming show of support from the community," said Gerianne Puskas, Relay For Life director. "We're especially grateful to the many volunteers for all of their hard work to make Relay For Life a reality." Funds raised from the Relay For Life event help support American Cancer Society cancer research programs, as well as education, advocacy and patient service programs for cancer patients and their families. For those who participated in Relay For Life, the event represented hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that the disease will one day be eliminated. Since the first Relay For Life was held in 1985 in Tacoma, Washington, the event has raised over $1 billion. Last year, more than 35,000 people in New York state participated. |
