Locally, cancer survivors are gathering at events hosted by the Relay For Life movement, which unites communities to celebrate people and families who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and take action to finish the fight once and for all. Celebrations and activities for survivors are free and open to the public.
“Cancer survivors and their caregivers join us as our honorary guests for a complimentary dinner, a survivor and caregivers lap and a touching Luminaria Ceremony at nightfall where candles are lit in honor and memory of locals who have battled cancer,” said Cathleen Garry, Senior Market Manager for the American Cancer Society. “There is a festive atmosphere all around, including a moving moment when survivors and their caregivers take the first lap as community members cheer them on and celebrate the progress that has been made against cancer,” she added.
While celebrations occur at all Relay For Life events, the following are scheduled during this weekend,
Relay For Life - North Folk
Friday, June 3 | 6 p.m. - 6 a.m.
$5,424. That’s the amount of money the North Fork event can raise if each participant raises $48 in the next 48 hours. Join the challenge as a survivor or participant today!
Relay For Life - Plainedge High School
Saturday, June 4 | 3 p.m. - 12 a.m.
Don’t miss the Plainedge Relay - with a dunk tank, magic show, and special announcement from the American Cancer Society, it’s sure to be an event to remember!
Relay for Life - Bethpage
Saturday, June 4 | 5 p.m. - 5 a.m.
It’s the 10th Anniversary of the Bethpage Relay for Life event. Celebrate with them as they celebrate those people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all.
Relay for Life - Northport
Saturday, June 4 | 6 p.m.
What could be better than luminarias and live music? Local groups Heartland, Band Three 2 Six, and will perform along tons of other great Relay activities.
Relay for Life - Elwood
Saturday, June 4 | noon - midnight
At Elwood High School's Relay for Life event, you can show your support for survivors and those that still battle today - a powerful way to participate.
Relay for Life - Smithtown
Saturday, June 4 | 6 p.m. - 6 a.m.
Can you last through until the 5 a.m. Fight Back Lap? We think you can. Checkout the full schedule of events and fight back today!
Relay for Life - Sachem
Saturday, June 4 | 6 p.m.
Sachem School District is one of the largest on Long Island. You can help them reach their larger than life goals!
“One of the most important aspects of Relay For Life is celebrating cancer survivorship, call attention to the challenges of cancer survivorship and show that life after a cancer diagnosis can be rewarding and inspiring,” said Garry. Our hope is that anyone impacted by cancer comes to experience Relay For Life and show support for community members facing cancer.”
Cancer Resources on Long Island
National Cancer Survivor’s Day is one of many great opportunities to celebrate the strength of our loved ones. If you can’t make one of the celebrations above, consider attending another Relay for Life event near you, start your search at RelayForLife.org. You can also find support programs and services hosted by the American Cancer Society’s in your area, and other support groups on our Local Organizations page.