Register Your Relay For Life Of Newtown Team Now

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Newtown will be here sooner than you think, which means it is time to make your presence known. In the first two weeks of registration for 2009, 11 teams within Newtown have already formed to raise funds for this year’s event.

“Last year local teams banded together to raise a record amount of $410,000,” said Team Registration Chair Helen Benson. The teams leading the way in raising the most funds were The Bookmates, Las Mamacitas, Walking for a Silver Lining, Readers for Relay, and The Fitness Loft.

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a family-oriented event where participants enjoy the camaraderie of a team and also raise funds to help eliminate cancer. Former and current cancer patients, those who have lost a loved one to cancer, families, businesses, civic organizations, and the public are invited to take part in this exciting event by creating a team and registering at www.relayforlife.org/newtownct.

“Participants camp out at the Relay site, and when they are not taking their turn walking, they take part in fun activities and enjoy local entertainment,” said Cancer Education Chair Mary Marinaccio. The event helps communities celebrate those who have faced cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.

This “celebration of life” brings the Newtown community together in a unified effort to fight cancer. This year’s Relay For Life will take place on June 13 and 14 at Fairfield Hills, which is a new venue for the town.

“Relay For Life brings the progress against cancer to the forefront,” said Necole Salveson, event chair. “Many participants are our family, friends, and neighbors who have dealt with cancer themselves. Their involvement is proof of the progress that has been not only reducing death rates, but also in the quality of life following cancer treatment.

“The funds raised enable us to continue our investment in the fight against cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services,” added Ms Marinaccio. “Thanks to the generosity of all the 2008 participating teams, the money raised goes directly to the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving programs.”

Information about how to form a team or become involved in Relay For Life of Newtown is available online at www.relayforlife.org/newtownct or by contacting the Relay Committee at relayforlifeofnewtown@gmail.com.