Relay for Life has come a long way since 1985, when Dr. Gordy Klatt spent 24 hours on a track in Tacoma, WA, to raise $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. Since then, thousands of communities in 27 countries across the globe have hosted Relay for Life events, Greater Waterbury among them.
“This has become the signature event for the American Cancer Society and a signature event for our community,” says Leever Cancer Center Executive Director Kevin Kniery, who was among the featured speakers at the June 2 Greater Waterbury event. “This year marked the 25th time our friends, family, neighbors, survivors, caregivers and warriors came together locally to support the important work being done by the American Cancer Society. In a very real sense, this event defines the power of community and the good that comes from working together.”
Globally, Relay for Life events have raised more than $5 billion in 33 years. On the home front, Greater Waterbury alone raised more than $151,000 this year, thanks to the 455 participants — 190 of them survivors — from 44 teams, including Leever’s own, “On the Wings of Hope.”
It’s not too early to start thinking about the next Greater Waterbury Relay for Life! Mark your calendars for June 8, 2019, and join us at a new location, Holy Cross High School, Oronoke Road, Waterbury.
|
& Jada Howard of Team Leever |
|
with Melissa and Bill Seres celebrating the day. |