Relay for Life Raises $125,000 - SuffolkJournal.com

1st Relay for Life

Raises $125,000

Rocky Point -

Tears, smiles and hope at the American Cancer Society’s first-ever Relay For Life event in Suffolk County. Held at Rocky Point Junior/Senior High School on June 29 and June 30, the signature event raised more than $125,000 to support lifesaving American Cancer Society research, as well as local education, advocacy and patient service programs.

More than 2,500 people, including 100 teams and 125 cancer survivors, came out to take turns walking or running, relay-style, around the school track to fight cancer in Suffolk County. The highlights of the evening were the survivor victory lap, which kicked off the event; and the luminaria ceremony, which honored cancer survivors and remembered those who have lost the battle against the disease. More than 4,000 luminaria candles lined both sides of the track, lighting the path of hope for walkers and runners. The solemnity of the luminaria ceremony reminded participants of the incredible importance of their contributions.

Most Relay For Life participants walked around the track, however members of the Rocky Point girls track team and the Shoreham-Wading River track team chose to run. By the end of the 16-hour event, the runners logged an extraordinary 1,100 laps.

On the sidelines, teams enjoyed a variety of entertainment and activities scheduled throughout the night, including “MC DJ Luny Tuny;” several musical groups including up-and-coming alternative rock band, “Troop 47;” and a talent show and karaoke sing-along.

“The community of Rocky Point really came out and embraced this first-time event,” said Cindy Mardenfeld, Relay For Life director. “We are especially grateful for the many volunteers and their families for putting in long hours of hard work and dedication to make this event so successful.”

The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life was generously supported by many Rocky Point merchants and restaurants; including Krispy Kreme Donuts, which supplied breakfast; McDonald’s, which contributed 1200 bottles of water and several pizzerias, which donated more than 100 pizzas to the event.

Next year - it will be an even bigger event. Hope to see you there!