Relay for Life raises more than $79,000 for the American Cancer Society

By Evan Pappas • July 12, 2017 7:30 am

Cancer survivors, caregivers, supporters and community members came out to Tollgate Farm Park in North Bend Saturday, July 8, to participate in the annual Relay for Life event. This year’s event brought in more than $79,000 in total donations.

Relay for Life of Snoqualmie Valley raises funds for the American Cancer Society; participants came to share stories of how their lives have been affected by cancer. Surrounded by a community based on positivity and hope, the participants gathered for a day-long event that ended at 8 a.m. on Sunday morning.

The event began with and introduction by Relay for Life of Snoqualmie Valley chairperson Bev Jorgensen. She recognized many of the Relay board members for their contributions to this year’s event and brought to the stage community members to share their stories.

Jorgensen also brought up representatives from four Valley cities to highlight the community support the group has received in the past year. North Bend Mayor Ken Hearing, Snoqualmie Mayor Matt Larson, Fall City Parks Commission President Perry Wilkins and Carnation Deputy Mayor Dustin Green, all spoke about their support for Relay for Life.

Following the opening ceremony, cancer survivors were divided into groups, based on how many years they have been cancer survivors. The survivors led the first lap around the park.

Cancer survivors, caregivers, fundraising teams and community members all walked together to show their support for the group and the cause to create a world without cancer.

“Our teams have been working hard with some fantastic fundraisers this year,” Jorgensen said. “Relay is a family, we are a community and it keeps us together.”

While this year’s Relay for Life event is over, donations are still being accepted at the group’s website.

The group of survivors for more than 20 years begins their trek around the park. (Evan Pappas/Staff Photo)

Before the first march, cancer survivors divided themselves into groups based on how many years they have been a survivor. (Evan Pappas/Staff Photo)

Fall City’s Mark Reddish shares his story of cancer’s effect in his life and talked about his work in cancer research. (Evan Pappas/Staff Photo)

Bev Jorgensen brings representatives from Valley communities to the stage. From left, Snoqualmie Mayor Matt Larson, Deputy Mayor of Carnation Dustin Green, North Bend Mayor Ken Hearing, and President of the Fall City Parks Commission Perry Wilkins. (Evan Pappas/Staff Photo)