SOUTH BRUNSWICK: Kickoff for cancer fight

by Davy James, Staff Writer
   The American Cancer Society held a kickoff on Tuesday at the South Brunswick Family YMCA for its Relay for Life, which will come to the township for the first time in June.
   Teams are currently being sought to participate and raise money for the fight against cancer.
   ”We really want to create awareness about cancer because it’s still a disease that affects everyone here,” said Christine Sagge, director of special events for the central Jersey region of the American Cancer Society. “We’re here to make a difference and help this community any way we can.”
   The event will take place on June 12-13 with registration beginning at 5 p.m. The relay will run from 6 p.m. until 8 a.m.
   The relay is an overnight team event where teams are formed in honor or in memory of someone who has battled cancer.
   ”In communities that have embraced the Relay for Life we see people come together to support survivors and make sure they have the resources they need to fight back against the disease,” said ACS Regional Vice President Rob Eccles. “This is our premier event and our way to engage communities in the fight against cancer.”
   Teams are typically comprised of eight to 15 people, with one team member walking on the track throughout the night. There will be a survivor’s lap where those who battled cancer come together and walk the track to celebrate their struggle. There also will be a dinner for survivors at the event where they can bring a guest and be treated to a meal provided by the ACS. A candle-lighting ceremony also will be held to honor victims and survivors.
   Those participating in the relay said it’s a means to get involved in the fight.
   ”I had a close friend who passed away from cancer so I wanted to volunteer and do more,” said Mindy Grubin, of Monmouth Junction, who has participated in Relay for Life events in other townships for the last two years. “It’s a good way to remember and celebrate those who we’ve lost to the disease.”
   The event helps raise funds through team sponsorships to provide education and patient services and fund research at area hospitals and universities.
   To start or support a team visit www.relayforlife.org/southbrunswicknj.