Celebrating Lives Saved, More Birthdays at the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Lake Zurich/Wauconda
Over 350 community residents are expected to gather and celebrate, enjoy entertainment, listen to inspirational speakers and more at the Relay For Life of Lake Zurich and Wauconda on Saturday, June 11 at Paulus Park, 200 S. Rand Rd., Lake Zurich. The first lap of the Relay, starting at 6 p.m., is to honor cancer survivors.
Relay For Life is an overnight event that brings the community together in the fight against cancer to celebrate the lives of those who have cancer, remember those lost to the disease, and fight back against a disease that takes too much. Petra Croneigh and Gayle Mead are co-chairing the event.
“We have reached all of our set goals and are ready to celebrate,” says Mead. “Community members who attend should expect a lot of enthusiasm; we are really excited about the event.”
Over 40 teams of local businesses, schools, churches, community groups and families raise funds - prior to and at the event – to support cancer research to help find cures and to provide local programs aimed at helping people stay well, get well and fight back.
“We will be having a DJ and a live band for the portion of the night, along with themed laps every half hour,” says American Cancer Society staff person Alicia Wren.
Community members are encouraged to stop by and enjoy the dance performances, baggo tournaments, bake-off tastings, silent auctions and many more special activities going on throughout the evening.
“This is an opportunity for Lake Zurich and Wauconda residents to see the support their community has for cancer patients and survivors,” says Wren.
Kids will be entertained with hula hoop and frozen t-shirt concerts, pasta necklace and Relay picture frame making, and a stick the candle on the cupcake, a spin-off of the classic game, pin the tail on the donkey.
In addition to being a celebration, Relay For Life is also a tribute to those who have been lost to cancer, a celebration of those who have survived cancer, and a hope for those who currently face cancer that one day through our efforts cancer will be eliminated.
“In my personal life, like many others, I have lost a loved one to cancer. My sister, Lauren Carol Miller, had cancer and died at the age of 33. She left behind her five sisters and brother, mother, father, husband and three beautiful daughters, not to mention numerous friends,” says Wauconda resident Leslie Perry, who is participating in the Relay. “It has been 17 years now and one of things that helps me get by is to raise money for cancer research, education, advocacy and services. It makes me feel good to know that I can make a difference.”
The Luminaria Ceremony will be held at 10 p.m. just after dark, to honor and remember loved ones. Honorees include survivors, caregivers and those who have lost their battle against the disease. Hundreds of luminaria will line the track and continue to burn throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their loves ones' contributions.
The goal of this year's Relay For Life of Lake Zurich and Wauconda is just over $130,000. Funds raised through Relay provide day-to-day and emotional support services for area patients and their families, cancer research, community educational programs and advocacy initiatives.
“It's reassuring to know that 94 cents of every dollar will be staying local and assisting Illinois cancer research,” says Mead. “Every year there are more discoveries in cancer research, hopefully there will be a cure soon.”
Anyone wishing to form a team, participate in survivor activities, or honor a loved one with a luminaria, should contact the American Cancer Society at 847-317-0025, or visit www.relayforlifelakezurich.com.