Northern Berkshire Kicks Off Relay For Life Season
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"Relay For Life is an awareness-raiser about the progress against cancer as much as it is a fundraiser," said Laura Baran, community executive for development for the American Cancer Society. "Individuals who are willing to give their time and energy to this exciting event as a volunteer or participant have made a commitment to fight back against this disease and let the community know that you can beat cancer."
Anyone interested in joining the planning committee, becoming a team captain, volunteering, or just finding out more about Relay For Life is encouraged to attend the kick off. Light refreshments will be served.
 iBerkshires file
Participants at last year's Relay For Life in North Adams. |
Cheryl Cantarella, the new co-chairman of Northern Berkshire Relay For Life, said she's very excited to be in her new position even though she has been involved for some time.
"I have been participating in the Northern Berkshire Relay For Life since its inception in 2006," Cantarella said. "My sister-in-law had just been told that her cancer had returned so our family decided to create a team for her. I have been a team captain since 2006, joining the planning committee in 2008, and beginning my adventure as co-chair for the 2009 Relay."
Cantarella has many goals that she would like Northern Berkshire residents to be aware of and to strive for.
"I'd like us to raise as much money as possible for this cause so that ACS can continue to fund the various research programs it is involved with," she said. "I know that times are tough for many people but every dollar helps. I would also like to get the word out about Relay. It amazes me how many people still have never heard of this event. It really takes a community to make this event the success it has been and the more support we receive, the more we can do to help prevent this disease and provide all the amazing programs that ACS offers for cancer patients and their families."
Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society's largest signature event as well as the most successful fundraiser in the United States today. This year, the event will be celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Back in May 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon and avid runner, took the first step of his 24-hour walk/run around a track in Tacoma, Wash. He clocked 83 miles, raising $27,000 to support the American Cancer Society.
Today there are more than 218 communities that host Relay events in New England. In 2008, these Relays raised more than $23.8 million, all of which went to support local programs of cancer research, education, advocacy and patient services, including transportation for cancer patients to treatments, one-on-one support for women with breast cancer, cosmetologist consultations for women being treated for cancer, tobacco control education and mammography outreach.
The Relay For Life event in Northern Berkshire County will be held at the Noel Field Athletic Complex in North Adams on May 29 to 30, rain or shine. The 18-hour event will begin on Friday at 6 p.m. with the survivors' lap and conclude at noon on Saturday.
