Relay for Life Takes in $12,000 to Fight Cancer
5th Annual Event Celebrates Survivors, Remembers Loved Ones
More than 35 teams and 250 people helped raise $12,000 for the American Cancer Society in St. Francis College’s 5th Annual Relay For Life on March 26 at the College’s Peter Aquilone Court.
"Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer. My grandparents lost their battle against cancer and passed away last year,” said Relay For Life Chairperson Jaclyn Mistretta ‘10. “Relay is a special day to celebrate those who are still here; remember those who are gone, and keep fighting back for everyone!” (Watch a short story on Relay)
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St. Francis Dean of Students Cheryl Howell was the honoree for this year’s Relay in recognition for her work as the founding Relay faculty member as well as her efforts each year to make the event bigger and better.
“I had several people tell me that they had a really rough day, but that when they walked into the gym and saw Relay, they immediately felt better,” said Karin Rockwin, Coordinator of Special Events for the American Cancer Society. “The Luminaria ceremony was incredibly moving and absolutely beautiful. It is amazing to see all of the Luminaria bags lit up in honor and in memory of our loved ones.
Since 2006 St. Francis College has raised nearly $100,000 for the American Cancer Society through Relay For Life, held numerous on-site wellness activities such as the Great American Smokeout, and has founded a nationally recognized Colleges Against Cancer (CAC) Chapter.
By forming teams with a fundraising goal of $1000, and walking around an indoor track for the duration of the event, the St. Francis community shows its dedication to not only finding a cure, but to supporting Brooklyn residents by providing free screenings and support services.
The event began with an opening lap walked by cancer survivors and caregivers and continued for several hours as participants also took part in various activities including a limbo and dance contest, hot potato relay race, Karaoke, ring toss and the very popular whip cream pie toss.
“When I first learned about the Relay, I was immediately drawn to it because of the commitment to family and communities,” said Cindy Hernandez ‘13, a Relay for Life Committee member. “The Relay touches my heart directly, as I have both friends and family members that have both survived or passed away from cancer.”
“I relay to represent a concerted effort to keep fighting the good fight against cancer,” added Julio Valentin another Committee member.
The website, www.relayforlife.org/stfranciscollege will remain open and able to accept donations through the end of August. If people would like to submit donations via mail they can be mailed to our local office at:
American Cancer Society
17 Eastern Parkway, 5th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11238
Attn: Relay For Life of St. Francis College
St. Francis College, founded in 1859 by the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, is located in Brooklyn Heights, N.Y. Since its founding, the College has pursued its Franciscan mission to provide an affordable, high-quality education to students from New York City’s five boroughs and beyond.
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St. Francis College, 180 Remsen Street, Brooklyn Heights, NY 11201
www.sfc.edu