Port Preps for Milestone Relay for Life

Put ten candles on a cake: fundraising walk-a-thon Relay for Life will celebrate a decade in Port Washington on Saturday, June 18. Organizers are hoping the big birthday year pays off in dollars.

“We’d be happy if they broke $100, 000,” said Paul Gruol, Director of Special Events for the American Cancer Society's Eastern Division, the organization that runs Relay for Life.

So far, the 2011 event has raised more than $58,000 through online pledges. But event-day sales of raffle tickets and paper lanterns, lit in memory of those who died of cancer, are expected to bump up that total. The Port Washington Relay is the largest of its kind in Nassau County, raising more than $1.1 million since its inception.

The event, where teams or individuals, walk around a track through the night kicks off Saturday at the with the opening of the Kiddie Corner at 5:30 p.m. and concludes with a 7 a.m. breakfast. Highlights include a 5 p.m. Survivor/Caregiver dinner in the Sousa cafeteria that is free and open to the public, a 7 p.m. opening ceremony with the Survivors Lap and the luminaria lighting at 9 p.m.

New this year are sales of Relay mementos including $3 rubber bracelets in Relay’s signature royal purple as well as stadium cups and tote bags, each priced at $1. Also, for the first time a combined chorus of and students will perform.

“It’s a very moving event,” said volunteer Susan Liberstein, who lost both parents to cancer and is helping run the Survivor’s Dinner. “There’s a lot of mixed emotions – there is sadness but there is also a celebration of life.” 

Long-time volunteer Christine Panico who helps spearhead the raffle baskets says the event is out-of-the-ordinary. “It’s magical,” she said . “To stand there and hear people’s stories and struggles, and to hear these people be hopeful and positive, there is nothing more rewarding.” 

The family-friendly event includes kids’ activities, live music and inspirational speeches. While many participants pitch tents and walk through the night, event organizers stress that sleeping out or pulling an all-nighter isn't required.

“Port's Relay is a dynamic event that brings the community together in so many ways, all worth experiencing in person,” said event co-chair Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy. “Nothing is required; you don't have to join a team or pitch a tent and spend the night to enjoy the evening.” 

“Once you try Relay, you will be hooked,” added co-chair Nora Johnson. “We invite everyone in the community to join us at the 10th anniversary of Relay for Life this Saturday evening. Don't miss it.” 

For individuals planning on lacing up and walking, organizers recommend sturdy walking shoes, layers, sunscreen and cash for raffles. Participants planning on sleeping over should pack tents, sleeping bags, snacks and a change of clothes.

Port resident Bernadette Dolan, who began attending Relay ten years ago when it was just a small group of people, says the event has made great inroads in the community. “It’s amazing to see how it’s grown" she said. "When you say, ‘Relay’ now people know it and that recognition is the biggest satisfaction.”