RELAY FOR LIFE
Valerie Duburg of Kingston, a 10-year breast cancer survivor, cuts the ribbon to kick off the survivor and caregiver lap after an opening ceremony for the 22nd annual Relay for Life on Saturday at Dietz Stadium in Kingston, N.Y. Chloe Hyneman, front, a 7-year-old cancer survivor from Kingston, looks on. At left is 2008 Grand Marshall and retired Ulster County treasurer Lewis Kirschner. Hundreds participated in the annual event to benefit the American Cancer Society. Story and additional photo >>
As many as 1,000 area residents joined the 22nd annual Relay for Life at Dietz Stadium on Saturday to honor cancer survivors and caregivers.
As of mid-morning, more than 500 people had registered at the stadium, said Beth Bechtold of the American Cancer Society, which works to eradicate cancer, to raise money for research and educate the public about prevention strategies. According to American Cancer Society literature, the relay is “an effort to free the world from the pain and suffering of cancer.”
“We’re here to honor survivors and caregivers. We’re here to make money, and we’re here to honor them,” Bechtold said.
The walk began Saturday morning and would continue until 11 p.m. that night, she said.
Many of the survivors and caregivers marched wearing tee shirts bearing the message, “We are courageous. We are passionate. We are determined. We are hope.”
Cancer survivors and supporters were offered a free lunch catered by the Smokin’ Pony BBQ of Saugerties and served by volunteers from United Health Care, who had raised money to help pay for this year’s event, Bechtold said.
Saugerties also joined the Relay for Life Saturday at the Kiwanis Ice Arena, 6 Small World Ave.
Funds raised at these events will help the American Cancer Society provide free information and support for people facing the disease, and fund cancer research that will help protect future generations, according to a press release.
During the Relay For Life at Dietz, members of several fundraising teams took turns walking or running around the track.
On Sunday, at the Kiwanis Ice Arena in Saugerties, the Bark for Life, an event celebrating dogs as caregivers, is expected to attract about 30 vendors, organizers said. Canine participants may participate at the “Doggie Fun Zone” and an obstacle course.
Dogs who are pre-registered online will receive a free run through the fun zone, otherwise the fee is $5 per run.