Preparing for Baldwin's Relay for Life: First Lap takes the lead

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The First Lap, a key event in the Relay for Life cancer charity walk, returned to Baldwin on Jan. 11 at Baldwin High School’s track and field.

Held annually on the first Saturday of the year, the event has become a tradition since its founding in 2018 by Joe Gillette. Gillette created the First Lap to renew his dedication to Relay for Life and inspire others to join the fight against cancer.

The event is led by Abby, a thyroid cancer survivor, and Miguel Melendez, a prostate cancer survivor. They took the reins in 2020, but the pandemic forced them to pivot to a virtual format, raising more than $12,000 that year.

Previously, the First Lap had been held at Baldwin High School from 2009 to 2013 and then at Baldwin Park from 2014 to 2016, where it raised nearly $28,000 in its final year. After a brief hiatus, Abby and Miguel relaunched the event in 2024, successfully raising $15,000 with a new goal of $22,000 for 2025.

“We’re still finalizing the location,” Miguel said. “I’ve been working with the school district to move it from the park to the middle school—fingers crossed it gets approved.”

The event encourages Relay for Life participants to form teams within their communities, join existing teams, or participate individually. Local businesses, including The Irish Pub and Blink Fitness, have been active supporters.

Relay for Life, founded by the American Cancer Society in 1985, has grown into a global movement, now taking place in more than 30 countries. The event honors those who have lost their battle with cancer, celebrates survivors, and raises crucial funds for cancer research, patient support, and advocacy efforts.