Relay for Life set to raise money for cancer research

The Lakes Area Relay For Life event is slated for this weekend at James R. Geisler Middle School, located at 46720 Pontiac Trail in Commerce Township. The event, which raises money for the American Cancer Society, begins at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 21 and runs until 10 a.m. Sunday, May 22.

“Cancer never sleeps so for 24 hours we don’t sleep,” said Lakes Area Relay for Life Promotion Chair Wendy Stanton.

Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society to fund research and programming for those battling cancer. Programs may include the “Feel Better Workshop,” designed for women losing their hair during treatment; or transportation for out-of-state doctor visits.

There is no entry fee, but participants are asked to “spread the word” for donations.

So far, 236 walkers/runners are signed up to participate.

After an opening ceremony, the fun begins at 11 a.m., with wild and wacky themes for each hour attendees trek around the school’s track. Some of the fun includes a Crazy 1980s lap in which participants are allowed to dress up in their retro Madonna-wannabe clothes and get moving. In addition, other planned activities include:

• Favorite superhero lap;

• Crazy hat lap;

• Glow-in-the-dark lap;

• A musical chairs scavenger hunt;

• Pajama lap;

• A Euchre tournament; and

• Relay Idol, a contest in the spirit of American Idol.

In tandem with Relay for Life activities, entertainment will be ongoing with highlights such as performances from Walled Lake Northern High School students; karaoke; and performances by Stephen Clark and George Garcia, as well as a silent auction.

A survivor dinner will be served for participants, as well as a breakfast hosted by St. William’s Church.

Participants earn entry points for closing ceremony drawing prizes depending on the event. The winner of each event will be awarded a Survivor’s Choice Award plaque and prize at the Survivor’s Choice Award Ceremony.