Relay For Life Cancer Benefit Returns To Wellington May 22 STORY BY LAUREN MIRÓ PHOTOS BY ABNER PEDRAZA
A million steps and one goal, Relay for Life brings millions of people worldwide together in the search for a cure for cancer. It is an opportunity for communities to celebrate survivors, remember loved ones, and fight back against the disease. This year, the local chapter of the American Cancer Society will host an overnight event May 22 at Wellington’s Village Park on Pierson Road, where residents will celebrate life and honor those who lost the battle. “It’s overnight to signify that cancer never sleeps,” American Cancer Society community representative Lindsay Martin said. “A patient never gets a night without cancer. We walk to honor those who have to live with it each and every day, those who never get to rest.” The relay’s history dates to 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a surgeon from Tacoma, Wash., walked a track for 24 hours straight to raise money for the American Cancer Society. The event has grown from one man and one mission, to more than three million people in 20 countries who come together each year in the fight against cancer. Teams sign up for the event in advance and raise money, which (Left) American Cancer Society community representative Lindsay Martin with Wellington Relay for Life event chair Bill Smith. (Above) Village Park, site of the May 22 relay. WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • APRIL 2010
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