West Brook Family Unites in Cancer Fight [VIDEO/PHOTOS]

The entire West Brook Middle School came together in its annual fight against cancer.

Friday afternoon students and faculty members were joined by friends in the community and family members, many of whom were cancer survivors, to take part in its second annual Relay for Life Field Day. Relay for Life is the signature fundraising event of the American Cancer Society. Each year the school takes part in raising funds and awareness through this event.

Every classroom proudly wore T-shirts and huge banners they made spreading a strong positive message that cancer will be battled and won.

"We want you to realize how much of a difference you have made and the power that you have over the future of our world," principal Carla Alvarez told her students.

Assemblywoman Connie Wagner and Senator Bob Gordon joined in the event presenting the school with a citation in honor of their dedication towards this fight and sharing positive words that cancer can be conquered.

"Today we know it’s not a death sentence, that we can beat this, and we’re close to it and we have beat it in many cases and that’s only done b/c of research dollars," said Wagner of Paramus. "I am so glad that you care about these issues and this is certainly one of the important ones."

Several students shared their own personal stories of how cancer affected their own lives. Some spoke of the friends and relatives they lost to early due to cancer while many also shared tales of those who have beat it.

Alvarez brought up Lourdes Hyland, school counselor, who a year ago was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer.

"Mrs. Hyland couldnt join us for our event last year so her presence here today is very special," said Alvarez. Hyland, who continues to undero treatment, told Patch she is so appreciative of the American Cancer Society. She never thought  she would be able to live with cancer.

Alvarez and Larry Calenda, vice principal, joined Hyland as she led the survivors around the field in the symbolic walk of survival as the song "I Will Survive" played over the loudspeakers. All the classes then followed walking to show their support in the fight.

A number of activities were set up for the students to enjoy on the field including a football throw, parachute play, face painting and nail painting for a $1, the proceeds going towards the American Cancer Society.

In the evening the students were invited back to the school with their famliy members to take part in the luminaria ceremony in honor of those who lost their battle or are still fighting this disease.

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