Alameda’s annual cancer research fundraiser, Relay for Life, has already raised more than $50,000 and donations are still coming in, according to the American Cancer Society. The event, which featured multiple commemorations of cancer survivors, patients, caregivers, and those who have lost their lives to the disease, took place Saturday, July 22, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., at Leydecker Park.
In its 31st year, Relay for Life Alameda is the longest serving relay in California. All proceeds from the event benefit the American Cancer Society (ACS). The event has been held at various venues in Alameda—last year at Jean Sweeney Open Space Park and this year on Bay Farm Island.
This year’s theme at Leydecker Park was “Carnival.” Visitors to the Park were encouraged to join in the walk, pledge donations, and purchase luminaria to light up the night. The Alameda team emphasized the danger of skin cancers and provided educational materials, sunscreen, and lip protection. As the relay concluded, the luminaria, crafted by Alameda Red Cross youth and marked with the names of loved ones, lined the walking path.
The Rising for Life team, captained by Nancy Benson, raised $16,898 for the American Cancer Society at this year’s relay. It was the team’s 19th year participating in the event. Deanna Huie was captain of the West End is the Best End team, which raised $7,735. Captain Josefina Arroyo’s Peace Love Cure team raised $7,404. Anchored by Alameda Kiwanis member Denise Gasti, the We Walk As One team raised $3,800.
Local businesses also participated in the event, including Dragon Rouge restaurant, which sponsored a Dine and Donate and contributed $380 in receipts. Tucker’s contributed ice cream for sale, adding to the donation total.
Alameda Kiwanis spokesperson Patricia Bowen contributed to this report.
