Kicking-off Port's 2012 Relay For Life

Bringing the community together to join the fight against cancer. That's the message behind Port Washington's 2012 Relay for Life event, taking place this year on June 16 at .

Volunteers held their kick-off meeting for the event on Tuesday at . 

There, Paul Gruol, director of special events for the American Cancer Society, announced that 14 Schreiber students on Feb. 11 will visit Hope Lodge in Manhattan, where cancer patients and their caregivers have a free place to stay while receiving treatment. One student's parents has a nearby restaurant and will donate food on that day. 

Goals for this year's Relay include bringing more survivors and caregivers to the celebration.

"We're always looking for new ways to honor those who have battled cancer and the relatives and friends who have helped them fight back," said Relay Co-chair Nora Johnson.

This year, the setup will differ slightly, with the Survivor Lounge strategically placed near the finish line of the Survivor/Caregiver laps, where  "our heroes will be invited inside for a celebratory toast and light fare," Johnson said.  

The Lounge, which replaces the traditional dinner that was held in the Sousa Cafeteria, will open at 6 p.m., and will reopen later in the evening for adult relayers.

Volunteers will also encourage more adults to participate in the event.

"It's a special night for the students who have been planning and fundraising for months, but we want to get out the word to their parents who have supported their efforts, as well as other adults in the community, that Relay is a great experience for people of all ages," Johnson said. "When the students of Port walk their first laps, we would like to see even more of us grown-ups by their sides since this is everyone's fight."  

She added: "As one young Relay Club member said at the kick-off meeting, 'Once people get to Relay, the energy, passion and power of the event, just draws you in, you are at once connected and engaged.'"