Chester County Relay for Life to host meeting

An informal meeting will be held on Monday, April 4 in Downingtown

The American Cancer Society is seeking teams for the 2016 Relay For Life of Central Chester County. An informational “Relay Rally” will take place on April 4, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at St. Joseph’s School at 340 Manor Avenue. Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s overnight fundraising activity. Local event organizers said teams gather with tents and sleeping bags to participate in the largest fundraising walk in the nation. Event organizers for Relay For Life said it unites friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools and churches. Teams fundraise prior to the relay to support a cure for cancer. “The event is very powerful and moving. Our passionate committee is working very hard to put on an awesome event for 2016,” Event Leadership Chairwoman Dawn Kirsch said in a news release. “Individuals who are willing to give their time and energy to this exciting community event, as a volunteer or as a participant, have made a commitment to fight back against cancer.” The theme this year is “Relay Goes Hollywood - Lights Camera, Cure!” Event organizers said that participants can dress as Hollywood characters. Teams can sign up to join the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Central Chester County to take place for 24 hours starting on May 21 at 10 a.m. through May 22 at Downingtown West High School at 445 Manor Avenue. The Survivor Celebration of Life will be held on May 21 at 6 p.m. and the Luminaria Ceremony is also on May 21, starting at 9 p.m. “The more teams we register,” Kirsch said, “the more money we raise to save lives.” Relay For Life of Central Chester County has raised over $4.95 million during the past 21 years, according to Kirsch. “Much of the money raised, has stayed right here in our very own community,” Kirsch said. “I am always touched by all those who come out to make a difference in the lives of others. We are a community that makes a difference.” Relay For Life volunteers said they welcome all cancer survivors, friends, family and neighbors to attend. There will be refreshments, entertainment and activities throughout the event. “Relay celebrates survivors, remembers loved ones and empowers others to fight back against a disease that affects so many,” event organizers said in a statement. For more information on Relay For Life or to register a team, contact Amanda Childs at Amanda. Childs@cancer.org or visit wwww. RelayForLife.org/paccc.