The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of the Big Island is celebrating its 32nd year of raising awareness and funds through its annual community event this Saturday.
This long-standing Hilo event is a volunteer-led experience that unites the community to celebrate cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost to cancer while raising funds to improve the lives of people with cancer. It brings together passionate volunteers and Relay teams who embody the American Cancer Society’s vision to end cancer as we know it for everyone.
The public is invited Saturday to Francis Wong Stadium for the Relay For Life. Opening ceremonies begin at 5 pm, and the Relay ends at midnight.
Funds raised before, during and after this family-friendly event contribute to the American Cancer Society’s commitment to cancer research, legislative advocacy and patient support.
This year’s Relay will have a fairy tale theme: “Once Upon a Relay — The Tale to End Cancer.”
More than 64 teams are registered, and team tent sites will offer games for keiki and goods to experience — all to raise money to funds to fight cancer.
Entertainment and activities courtesy of our Entertainment Sponsor KWXX and B97 include a dunk tank, inflatable axe-throwing, bouncing castle, Zumbathon, performances by Puna Taiko, hula performances, food trucks and more.
Check out the schedule of activities at www.relayforlife.org/hilohi.
The centerpiece of Relay is the Luminaria Ceremony at 9 p.m. Luminaria bags can be purchased and decorated that night or during a presale at any branch of Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union, the Luminaria Sponsor.
Ways to get involved:
— Join the Relay For Life on Saturday. Admission is free.
— Donate. If you can’t participate in this year’s event, you can still help save lives by donating. Every dollar fuels the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer. Visit www.relayforlife.org/hilohi to donate.
The event is supported by local businesses and organizations, including Presenting Sponsor Isemoto Contracting, Purple Chair Sponsor Enterprise Rent a Car, Luminaria Sponsor Hawaii Community FCU, Survivor Sponsor HFS Federal Credit Union, and many others in our community.
To learn more about Relay For Life, visit www.relayforlife.org/hilohi or contact Sarah Luchenbill at (808) 452-1511 or by email at sarah.luchenbill@cancer.org.