Throughout California, residents, schools and businesses will be painting their towns purple to celebrate cancer survivorship and bring attention to the annual 24-hour fundraising walk, which begins in Brentwood on June 23 at 10 a.m. on Liberty High's Ohmstede Field.
In support of the May Day For Relay event to be held, Contra Costa County Supervisor Federal Glover read a proclamation at the supervisors' April 10 meeting, which he then presented to Relay for Life organizers. Brentwood Mayor Bob Taylor also recognized the proclamation during a City Council meeting, as will Oakley Mayor Kevin Romick.
Throughout far East County, community leaders will be addressing their boards in acknowledgment of the May Day For Relay festivities, event organizers said. The plan is to continue to raise awareness of the Relay and unite all communities toward the common goal of making a difference in the fight against cancer.
'We're using the power of purple to bring good news to cancer survivors and mobilize the community," said event co-chair Dave Wahl. "Paint Own Town Purple Day is a time to celebrate the lives of cancer survivors, and to have some fun with the color purple to bring attention to the American Cancer Society's many programs and services in our community."
"Relay For Life is a wonderful event and the entire community is invited to participate," said event co-chair Fran Bowman. "On May 1, join us in the spirit of celebration and in painting our town purple to call awareness to this important event that works to benefit and recognize cancer patients, their families and caregivers."
This year Relay For Life organizers set a goal to have more than 100 teams and 300 cancer survivors participate to help raise more than $300,000 for the American Cancer Society. With 60 days to go, organizers said that 80 teams are already registered.
"We are astounded by the support of this year's event," said event spokesman Brett Morey. "We know that these goals can be reached. Now it's up to all of us to make it happen."
There are many ways to get involved, including visiting select businesses that support Relay For Life. One such business is Baja Fresh, located off the Highway 4 Bypass and Lone Tree Way. Baja Fresh will donate a portion of its proceeds to the American Cancer Society on Cinco de Mayo (May 5).
Registration forms and information about the Relay For Life are available from the American Cancer Society any time at (800) ACS-2345, www.cancer.org and www.acsevents/relay/ca/brentwood. While online, for a mere $10 donation you can create a luminaria in honor or in memory of a loved one or friend who has battled cancer.
For more information or to find out how to get involved in the Relay For Life fundraising efforts, call Alexandria Harmon at 984-5083.
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