Relay For Life raises $201,614

August 23, 2007

The American Cancer Society raised $201,614 during their recent 22nd Annual Relay For Life event.

Festivities began at the Cowlitz County Expo Center on August 11 at 10 a.m. with cancer survivors walking the first lap of the Relay. Wearing purple T-shirts and medallions to signify hope, more than 100 survivors of various ages carried balloons while circling the track.

After the opening ceremony, one member from each of the 90 teams in attendance began walking or running relay style for the 24 hour period. A variety of stage groups entertained over 1,000 participants and kept energy levels up. After sundown, luminaires lined the track to honor those living with cancer and in recognition of those who lost their battle to the disease. As night fell, lighted displays of the words "hope" and "cure" served as a backdrop for the ceremony that followed.

Earlier in the evening, the Mis' ter Relay contest was won by Rob Birdsell, who was presented with a crown and sash for collecting the most money while walking the track dressed in women's clothing.

At 10 a.m. on Sunday, the festivities came to a close and awards were presented. The Hot Flashing Lumpy Ladies team was recognized for raising the most money, turning in over $17,000 to support the American Cancer Society. Best Barbeque Award went to Team Cricket.

"We appreciate all the support we received from each of the teams as well as our event sponsors and underwriters," said event co-chair Tom Gunn. "We are especially grateful to the many volunteers and their families for all of their hard work to make this event happen."

Funds raised from the Relay For Life event will support the American Cancer Society's programs of cancer research, education, advocacy and services.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.