Community asked to rally around Relay

There are more events, over a dozen bands and entertainers and more survivors to honor at the annual North Fort Myers Relay For Life. Relay will take place May 21 and 22 at J. Colin English Elementary.
Organizers are encouraging members of the community to come support the event — to pay tribute to cancer survivors and enjoy numerous family friendly events to help raise funds for cancer research.
There is no cost to attend, and patrons can stop at different team stations to purchase themed-items, or just come to show support and enjoy the various activities.
“This year we have twice as many survivors as last year, and over a dozen bands – you can come just to enjoy the music while showing your support,” said event co-chair Suzanne Roberts.
“It’s a night of celebration, especially for survivors,” said event co-chair, Shanell Moneghan.
The Team Development chair for Relay is Stacy Pappas. “It is also a night of fun activities for the whole family for a good cause,” she said.
“It’s a great way for the community to come together to honor those we’ve lost and celebrate those still fighting and those who have beaten this disease,” said Moe Taylor, community representative representative for the American Cancer Society.
Entertainers include the Hot Flashz and The Calendar Girls, along with Strange Arrangement, Blackwater, Robb’n the Cradle, the Matt Adkins Band, Slow Deal and a dance recital by 4 the Kids School of the Arts.
There will also be a performance by Krystal Walters, a former student of Riverdale High School. “She will perform a song she’s written called ‘Give’ that was selected by the American Cancer Society as a national song for Relay For Life,” said Taylor.
“While we take the time to pause to honor and reflect on those we have lost, Relay is truly about coming out and celebrating our survivors. It is intended to be a fun-filled event.”
There will be karaoke, a water ballon toss, a crazy hat lap, a hula hoop and pizza box toss. Also, starting at 6 a.m. Day 2 there will be a sunrise service and sunrise yoga.
It is an 18-hour, overnight event when the public can come anytime to join in the activities. Numerous teams have been formed from various schools, family, business and friend groups to be the anchor for the event.
“Even if you not participating on a team, the event is free and anyone from the public is welcome to join us at any point through the Relay,” Taylor said.
For information call 936-1113 or mail to suzannealexis@aol.com.