Relay For Life kick-off event set for March 12

PORTLAND — The American Cancer Society invites Portland-area residents to celebrate cancer survivorship, remember loved ones lost and fight back against cancer during the 2008 Portland Relay For Life event. A kick-off meeting for this year's event is scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the Oak Room at the Wagon Wheel American Grill.

Although this year's Relay event is more than six months away, now is the time to get involved. The event is open to everyone. Organizers hope to see those individuals who have been involved in the past two Relay events, cancer survivors, and anyone who would like to learn more about the Relay For Life overnight event.

The Relay For Life is the group's signature event, dedicated to increasing awareness and raising funds to fight cancer. Teams of family, friends and co-workers camp out overnight, taking turns walking the track, a reminder that cancer never sleeps. The event includes entertainment and family activities, an inspiring Victory Lap by survivors and a luminaria ceremony at dusk that remembers those that have faced cancer.

The Portland Relay For Life event takes place from noon on Aug. 15 to noon on Aug.; 16 at the Portland High School track. For more information on getting involved in this year's event or about the kick-off event, contact Barb Bever at barbev@hotmail.com or call Catherine Thomet at 1-866-354-6284.

— From the American Cancer Society

Lansing State Journal (March 2, 2008) [From Portland Review & Observer]