Relay For Life: Community members raises over $600,000
By: Jennifer Lee
Updated: June 12, 2012
Community members all across Central New York have raised over $600,000 for the past three weeks in an effort to help fight cancer.
It was a strong turnout this year for Relay For Life.
Although these events were going on at various locations, they all had the same mission.
As many remember loved ones and commemorated cancer survivors and care-takers, many young and older took part in raising awareness to fight cancer.
Many dressed up. " We thought about Batman," said one participant.
And even came up with unique themes. "My mother's favorite holiday was Christmas. She loved decorating and loved getting the family together. After she passed it hurt," said David Overrocker.
And all had many stories to tell. " I'm here because my daughter Anjali had Neuroblastoma when she was three-years-old. She died after an 8 year battle. I'm here representing her and her brave fight. A year after she passed I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer," said Janine Roberts.
Over the past three weeks, community members in nine different locations across the Mohawk Valley pitched tents for 24-hours and as a whole raised over $600,000.
"The money that we raised goes to fight cancer through research programs that we administer patient education and advocacy programs like patient service programs like rides to doctor appointments," said Bob Elinskas, the Director of Special Events for the American Cancer Society.
Bob Elinskas, the Director of Special Events for the American Cancer Society says every dollar counts.
"You never know which dollar helps funds that next research program that may lead to the next break through down the line that can help someone else," said Elinskas.
Last year, community members raised over $800,000.
There is still one more Relay For Life event to go in Dolgeville. If you would like to get involved, the event is set to begin this Saturday at noon at Dolgeville High School.
