Farmington Valley's 'Relay' This Weekend To Help In War On Cancer

Farmington Valley Relay for Life

AVON, CT — Folks from the Farmington Valley will gather in Avon this Saturday for a special event celebrating survival, remembering those lost and raising money for an important cause.

Now in its 25th year, the American Cancer Society’s marquee community fundraiser, "Relay for Life,"has a goal of raising $500,000 in celebration of its milestone anniversary.

More than 2,500 walkers from the Farmington Valley and West Hartford have signed on to walk the track on May 31 at 99 Thompson Road in Avon, which is a town-owned recreation area.

The 24-hour event starts at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 31, and continues to 8 a.m. on Sunday, June 1.

To date, the Farmington Valley Relay for Life has raised $6.5 million towards cancer research and patient support services in Connecticut, including rides to treatment, and free lodging at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodges.

“Relay for Life is more than a fundraiser in the Farmington Valley,” said Dr. Harvey Dutil, team recruitment chair for Relay for Life. “There is a community dedication and spirit that you can feel coming together each spring for the greater good of a cause that has affected so many.”

The 24-hour event’s programming involves continuous walking on a standard track, but it is also a day filled with hope, remembrance, and action.

Participants take turns walking the track for continuous representation from each team.

Additional activities include ongoing entertainment, and moving ceremonies, including a celebratory Survivor Lap honoring those who have fought and won their battle followed by a luncheon, as well as a moving Luminaria Ceremony honoring those that have lost their battle to cancer.

This year’s carnival theme will add to the festivities with circus-themed performers, carnival games, a DJ, dancing, costume competitions, food trucks, and more.

Sponsors are also present with special exclusive opportunities to engage with participants.

“Relay for Life of Farmington Valley grows leaps and bounds year after year. Last year we had more than 160 students, civic and corporate groups, and 100 local event sponsors,” said Dr. Harvey Dutil, team recruitment chair for Relay for Life. “To build upon this success, we encourage everyone who has been affected by cancer to form teams in memory of an individual or to walk as a champion for someone undergoing treatment.”

Stephen Morelli, senior development manager, American Cancer Society, added: “This milestone year is a testament to the dedication of our participants, sponsors, and volunteers. I encourage everyone to join us, and help us end cancer as we know it, for everyone.”

Registration for Relay for Life is still open to form a team, and individuals are also welcome to participate. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are also currently available.

Registration and sponsorship levels are available at www.relayforlife.org/farmngtonvalleyct. To learn more about the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life or to join the Farmington Valley Relay for Life, visit www.relayforlife.org/farmingtonvalleyct or contact Relay Staff Member Stephen.Morelli@cancer.org. Follow us on Facebook at @Relayforlifeoffarmingtonvalley and Instagram @rfl.of.farmingtonvalleyct.

For more information and to sign up for sponsorships or to walk, click on this link.