Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature event and a celebration of hope, progress and answers. Relay is a team event where members take turns walking around a designated path, with at least one participant from each team on the track at all times to signify that cancer never sleeps, cancer patients don’t stop because they’re tired, and for one night neither do participants.
The Miami Lakes Relay for Life event is scheduled for Saturday, March 25, from 3 p.m. to midnight at Miami Lakes Optimist Park, 15700 N.W. 67 Avenue. The theme for this year is “Score Against Cancer” and will incorporate various sports-related activities and feature Billy the Marlin to kick off the day’s activities.
The event boasts live entertainment, a bounce house, food and games. Performers will begin with live music at 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. The line-up includes, in order of appearance, Mercedes Ferreira-Dias, Blew Money Mogul, Brittiny Murray, Electric Piquete, Heather Utset joined by Councilmember Tim Daubert, Rocky Valido, Betina E. Band, Hannah Rarick and The Dillinger Cat.
“We are honored to have our mayor, Manny Cid, as Honorary Chair and the Town councilmembers are Honorary Co-Chairs,” said Gloria Garcia, Miami Lakes Relay for Life Chapter chair and Event Lead.
The event will begin with an opening ceremony, a survivor lap where survivors and those currently affected by cancer walk the track to cheers, followed by a caregiver lap which recognizes those who have supported their loved ones during treatment. Teams continue walking during the remainder of the event and when taking breaks, can visit one of the many areas of entertainment.
After dark, Luminarias, decorated with names and messages, are lit in remembrance of those lost to cancer. Those interested in dedicating a Luminaria can purchase them online, place an order by mail or in person at the event. For more information on Luminarias, teams, participation and donating visit www.relayforlife.org/MiamiLakesFL. A total of $5,255 has been raised so far to reach the Miami Lakes Chapter’s $20,000 goal.
Notable sponsors are The Graham Companies, Miller’s Alehouse, Salsa Fiesta, Italy Today, and The Law offices of Corredor, Husseini, and Snedaker, P.A., among others.
All are welcome to attend and those interested in participating in teams or donations can contact Garcia at ggarcia98@aol.com or Nikolai Guzman, Community Manager, at 305-779-2843 or nikolai.guzman@cancer.org.