Relay For Life Update

On March 7, Relay for Life held its second informational meeting for the public. We had a great turn out and went over a number of items.  

The first big piece of news that we went over, is that we announced our Honorary Caregiver for this year’s relay, Lorraine Santore. Lorraine's story is an inspiration for all caregivers. Lorraine's husband Bob Santore was diagnosed with Leukemia and after an 18 month battle, he unfortunately succumbed to it. During this time span, not only did Lorraine and her two children, Geoff and Ashley take care of Bob, but friends, family, and the community came together to help the Santore family through this difficult time.

Lorraine truly believes "If it wasn't for the Newtown Community, Bob would not have survived the 18 months and that the care that her family got along with him, sometimes from people that they didn't even know, gave them those 18 extra months as a family."

Lorraine provides a perfect example of why we relay. Relay provides the opportunity for individuals to get together and support one another when they are most in need.

In addition Relay will be holding the annual Survivors & Caregivers Reception from 5:30 - 6:50 p.m., on Friday, June 1. This reception will be held just before the kickoff of the 2012 Relay For Life and will be located on the back patio of Newtown Youth Academy. Cancer survivors, including those recently diagnosed, as well as past and present caregivers are invited to this free reception. Anyone planning to attend the reception and/or first lap should RSVP to (203) 563-1524 or RelayForLifeOfNewtown@gmail.com.

Last but not least, our next informational meeting is April 4 at the Newtown High School Cafe from 7 -8 p.m. As of this article we have 39 teams signed up with 166 participants. This is a number that we hope to increase. We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the next meeting. Also, please feel free to visit us at www.relayforlife.org/newtownct.  Thanks for your support.