Relay for Life 2013 Kicks Off Next Week

A kick-off celebration marking the start of this year's Relay for Life fundraiser event towards finding a cure for cancer is set for next Wednesday night.

The Feb. 27 event set for 7 p.m. at Hasbrouck Heights High School will bring together the community along with the American Cancer Society representatives to get fundraising efforts underway for the June 1 and June 2 event to be held once again Depken Field.

The event has drawn hundreds to the field the past two years walking in honor of  those who have survived this disease, to support a loved one or friend battling cancer, or in memory of those who lost their fight.

The fundraising efforts each year go to the American Cancer Society which enables them to do numerous things from getting closer to a cure to supporting those battling the disease.

During kick-off members of the community can sign up to be team captains and get information on how to use the many tools available through the event website.

Over the past two years the event has brought in tens of thousands of dollars towards the fight against cancer.

The event is held overnight to show that cancer never sleeps. It begins with a moving and inspirational ceremony where the survivors in the group lead the walk followed for the caregivers. After dark a remembrance ceremony is held where the lights are turned off and the field is only lit by luminaria bags each personalized with a message in honor of someone who has battled cancer.

Participants camp out at the field grounds overnight and take part in the closing ceremonies early the next morning.

To learn more about the Hasbrouck Heights Relay visit the event page on the web.