Relay for Life Raises More Than $102K for American Cancer Society

Hundreds of people walked to remember loved ones and friends who died because of cancer at the seventh annual Relay for Life at Wayne Valley High School Saturday.

The American Cancer Society sponsored the 14-hour long event. The $102,500 the event brought in will help fund research and patient care initiatives. More is expected to be added to the total Sunday morning.

“I’m in awe that there are so many people who are here to support such a great cause,” said Dana Smith, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2011.

More than 900 people on 49 teams walked around the track. Not counting walk-up registrants, more than $102,500 was donated to the ACS. The goal was to raise $103,000.

Diane Pandolfi, director of elementary schools for the Wayne Public School District, addressed the crowd before the walk about her battle with breast cancer. She encouraged the participants, who braved the 90-degree heat on the sun-drenched track, to never give up their fight against cancer.

“You are those special warriors who have the heart, dedication, and commitment to come together in the spirit of the Wayne Valley and Wayne Hills high school communities to pay it forward and serve those in need,” Pandolfi said. “You are doing something good, pure, and selfless.”

Hundreds of people slept in tents Saturday night that were set up next to the field.

Tears were shed and hugs were shared during the luminaria ceremony. The lights were shut off as participants walked around the track holding glow sticks. Bags with messages written on them, a glow stick placed in each one of them. Bags were placed in the bleachers at the far side of the field. They were arranged to spell out “hope.”

Hope is what drives the ACS to continue its mission.

“We want a world with more birthdays,” said Kaitlin Chieco, director of special events for the ACS’s eastern division. “We want a world where cancer doesn’t exist.”

Survivors are also hopeful.

“I just try to stay positive,” Smith said as she wiped away tears, “for them,” pointing to her two children. “I want there to be a future where they don’t have to worry about getting cancer.”

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