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January 9, 2009 Patterson, CA

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Relay For Life ready to kick off

Written by Maddy Houk / Patterson Irrigator

Wednesday, 09 January 2008

Masonic Hall to host informational meeting

At a glance
WHAT: American Cancer Society Relay For Life

WHEN: May 17 and 18

WHERE: Patterson High School stadium, Ward and Salado avenues

KICKOFF MEETING:
6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Masonic Hall, 600 N. Sixth St.

INFO: 800-ACS-2345 or events.cancer.org/rflpattersonca

Participants brought in more than $100,000 in pledges last year in Patterson’s second American Cancer Society Relay For Life.

Cancer survivors complete the initial lap during last year's Relay For Life.

This month, the Patterson Relay for Life Committee will host the 2008 kickoff information rally for this year’s event at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the local Masonic Hall, 600 N. Sixth St.

People can find out how to participate, how to form or participate on a team, and how to do their part once again at the May 17 and 18 event, to be held at Patterson Community Stadium.
Relay for Life chairman John Salvador said a few committee positions are still available for volunteers to fill.

Last year’s total bested the more than $60,000 raised in 2005.

“The relay isn’t just walking laps and raising money — it’s about coming together in the fight against cancer,” said Vern Snodderly, online chairman. “It’s a time to remember those lost to this horrible disease and celebrate those who have survived. It’s a place where people connect with others, share cancer experiences and find comfort and solace.”

Last year’s relay had 522 registered participants on 34 teams led by 60 cancer survivors.

People from throughout the West Side are expected to walk around the Patterson Community Stadium track for 24 hours this year to celebrate cancer survivors, remember those lost to cancer and fight back against the disease.

For the first time, Salvador said, organizers want to challenge each local church to host a team this year.

Barbara Angellar (left) and Bridgett Jurado enjoy a survivors lap after the luminaria ceremony.

The relay is a fun-filled day-and-night experience, designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer. Teams take turns walking laps through the night to illustrate that cancer never sleeps. Food, entertainment and information will be provided.

Participants of any age are welcome. Adults must accompany children younger than age 12. Luminarias will be placed around the track to honor those who have succumbed to or survived cancer.

Donations are also needed from individuals, businesses, organizations and anyone who wants to provide entertainment.

Above is one of hundreds of luminarias that illuminated the PHS track during the event.

Money raised from donations and pledges will go to American Cancer Society services, education and research. Those services include support groups and a 24-hour countrywide hotline with a live person who provides answers to questions about cancer and cancer society programs.

Relay For Life started in 1985 when Gordon Klatt, a Tacoma, Wash., surgeon ran and walked for 24 hours by himself on a track at the University of Puget Sound. That year, he raised $27,000 for the fight against cancer.

Since then, 3,000 communities across the U.S. have sponsored Relay For Life events, organized by volunteers on behalf of the American Cancer Society.

To reach Maddy Houk at the Irrigator, call 892-6187 or e-mail her at
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