The Survivors’ Lap begins the 24-hour Relay for Life event.
By McKenna MIDDLETON, intern
Over one million Americans battle cancer each year. The American Cancer Society has been leading cancer research as well as supporting those affected by cancer for over 100 years. One event ACS sponsors is Relay for Life, a 24-hour run/walk to raise money for cancer research that also recognizes cancer victims and survivors.
Locally, the event is being held at Clark Magnet High School, this year beginning on Saturday morning, April 12. Teams composed of community members, non-profit groups, businesses, high school students and families set up tents at 9 a.m. on the Clark Magnet field, ready to call the campus home until 9 a.m. the following morning. The teams camp out all day and night, taking turns walking the field for 24 hours to signify that “cancer never sleeps.”
According to Foothills Relay for Life chairman Lori Carrico, there are 16 teams currently registered with 48 participants for this year’s Relay.
“Our whole community has pulled together to put on a better than ever event this year. We hope to have 30 teams and 500 participants,” said Carrico.
The Relay is kicked off Saturday morning with a Survivors’ Lap.
“We would love 30 or more survivors to start us off,” Carrico added.
A variety of events are planned leading up to the Foothills Relay for Life with the hope of gaining participants for and raising awareness of the walk.
One of these is Paint the Town Purple on Saturday, March 29. Volunteers will meet at 8 a.m. at the former Rocky Cola Café site to paint purple footprints all around Montrose. This year, footprints will also be painted along Foothill Boulevard from La Crescenta to La Cañada.
A booth can be found each Sunday at the harvest market in Montrose that has extensive information on participation and support for the event.
The support of the community, through financial donations and participation, is essential to its success. Carrico said that her committee and team captains have been “tirelessly spreading the word and getting sponsors, teams and food participants.” She also credited students from CVHS Prom Plus Club and Clark Magnet High School who have begun to sign up more volunteers as well.
To make a donation, sign up a team or learn more, visit www.foothillsrelayforlife.com.org.
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