Annual ‘Relay For Life of Baldwin Hills 2009’ Event Honors Friends & Family Who Succumbed to Cancer
Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas serves as this year’s fundraiser chair
Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas and his “Team Ridley-Thomas” joined more than a dozen other volunteer relay teams and supporters who participated in the American Cancer Society’s “Relay For Life of Baldwin Hills 2009” at the Ladera Little League Baseball field.
The annual fundraiser is an overnight team event that raises awareness about cancer in the community and much-needed funds to fight the disease. The Relay For Life of Baldwin Hills coordinator, Troy Green, started the event in memory of his wife, Kim, who died of cancer. The event helps family and friends to honor cancer survivors and remember those lost to the disease.
“We are not here today to simply raise money, but to bring together our communities in memory of those we have lost; those who continue to fight; and those who have fought to beat this disease, which we know to be indiscriminate,” said Supervisor Ridley-Thomas.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 150,000 new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed nationally among African Americans in 2009 and about 63,360 African Americans are expected to die from cancer this year.
“As chair of this year’s event, I believe that we can make a difference today. We should take pride in knowing that we have come together this weekend to create a world where this disease will no longer claim another life,” the Supervisor said.
“From this day forward, let's continue to remind one another of the importance of exercise, eating healthy, and regular doctor visits and screenings.”
The Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature event, taking place in more than 4,200 communities across the country. The teams are made up of individuals representing local businesses, community organizations and individuals, who raise funds by keeping at least one member walking or running on the track at all times …because “cancer never sleeps.”
In California, more than 270 communities will host Relay For Life events to encourage residents to take part in the fight against cancer. Funds raised will go to the American Cancer Society’s patient service programs, cancer research, advocacy and community education.
As we pay homage to cancer survivors and remember those we've lost to the disease, we also celebrate life and the opportunity to join the American Cancer Society in their mission to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families by the year 2015.
