Relay For Life returns to Lynbrook

Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society fundraiser, is returning to Lynbrook after a one-year hiatus. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, May 22 at the track at South Middle School on Union Avenue. 

One major difference this year is that the event will not take place overnight: registration will begin at 3 p.m. and the closing ceremonies will take place at midnight.

In the past, Relay For Life teams have camped out on the field, and stayed overnight, walking all through the night. The overnight aspect was a little strenuous for many, so it will be a modified version this year. 

Of course, the event will still consist of all the aspects of RFL that make it unique: the Survivors’ Dinner, the opening ceremony with the Survivors’ Lap, followed by the Caregivers’ Lap, the Luminaria ceremony and speeches by participants.

This year, RFL hopes to encourage many more members from the community to join them.  “While we expect the members of the school district, especially our students, to continue to be some of our biggest supporters,” said Director Ginny Lynch, “we encourage all Lynbrook residents as well as residents of the surrounding communities, and their families and friends, to establish teams and join us for an amazing experience.”

“There are few of us who have not been directly impacted by cancer, Lynch added, and this is our chance to fight back.”

 Relay For Life does not require the costly minimum donation that other cancer walks sometimes do. The walk welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. ”It is truly an experience you will never forget,” Lynch said.

The next planning meeting will be held in the Lynbrook Public Library on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at 7 p.m. “Please join us to find out more about Relay For Life, and how you can participate,” said Lynch. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ginny Lynch by calling (516) 593-8580 or e-mailing twnzn2@aol.com, with Relay For Life in the subject line. 

“Our first four Relay For Life events raised over $425,000,” said Lynch. ”Let’s make this one our most successful ever!”