Relay For Life of Los Altos kicks off fight against cancer
 Breast cancer survivors carry the Relay For Life banner as they walk in opening ceremonies last year. |
The Relay For Life of Los Altos, a community fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society, is scheduled June 24 and 25 at Los Altos High School. The event begins 10 a.m. June 24 with an opening ceremony, dove release and a survivor and caregiver lap. The parade of teams precedes the 24-hour walk, which culminates in the closing ceremony and a final lap at 10 a.m. June 25.
A community kick-off rally is scheduled 7:30 p.m. March 23 at the Los Altos United Methodist Church (Foothill & Magdalena). The program will feature inspirational stories, honor cancer survivors in the community and provide opportunities to register.
Last year, this community event to fight cancer drew more than 1,200 people and raised nearly $500,000 for the American Cancer Society. The ACS recognized the Los Altos relay as the No. 1 online fund-raising relay in the country for 2005 and named it to its Circle of Excellence.
“This year we’re seeing an even greater response from our community,” said Jeanne MacVicar, event chairwoman and 21-year breast cancer survivor. “So far, 48 teams have committed to participate out of the committee’s 80-team goal.”
Local businesses such as Maltby’s restaurant and Full Thread Ahead have formed relay teams and are planning team fund-raising events.
This year’s theme is from Dr. Seuss: “Oh! The Places You’ll Go!” Organizers expect it to generate creative themes for teams and fun games and activities for kids. Entertainment is lined up for all ages. Janie Lidey will perform her Canadian Emmy Award-winning song, “Something About an Angel,” and Polynesian dancers will perform.
The Relay For Life program will waive the $100 fee for team registration for teams that register online before Feb. 28. There is no fee for individual participants.
For more information, call 917-7979 or visit www.losaltosrelay.com.
