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Relay for Life at All Sport Fishkill Raised $97,000 for the American Cancer Society
 | | Dressed in purple Relay for Life shirts, cancer survivors gather to watch Barbara Dell'Orso, center, cut the opening ribbon for this American Cancer fundraiser, held at All Sport Fishkill. They are, left to right, Stephanie, Koslow, Kathy Ferrusi, Barbara Dell'Orso, Gail Buckle, Rob Furphy and Liam Ollive. |
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Families, friends and coworkers came together on Friday, June 15 at All Sport Fishkill with the goal to raise money to benefit the American Cancer Society and achieved incredible success. The 6th annual Relay for Life raised more than $97,000.
The event, hosted by All Sport Fishkill, gathered 35 teams from throughout Dutchess County who walked relay style around the track at the Outdoor Park. The park was filled with more than 1,200 people who came to this outdoor fundraiser to honor cancer survivors and fight cancer. "The weather and turn-out this year is absolutely fantastic. Seeing so many people come together because of cancer is both heart wrenching and heartwarming," said Christine Kolosky, chairperson of Relay for Life. "Each year we surpass our goals thanks to the dedication and support of our committee, volunteers, the community and teams who our so committed to making this a success. Our sincere gratitude goes out to everyone for their selfless contributions to Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society."
The evening started with a touching opening ceremony honoring cancer survivors with a speech from cancer survivor, Stephanie Koslow and a ribbon cutting done by cancer survivor, Barbara Dell'Orso. An inspirational rendition of You'll Never Walk Alone performed by Alethea Schepperly was the background for the first lap walked by cancer survivors.
Team members then enjoyed live entertainment by The Costellos, Mother Lode, The Nuclear Suite & St. George and Friends, a Penny Social & Silent Auction, themed laps, camping and walking, walking walking! The highlight of the night was the emotional luminaria ceremony at 10pm, opened by speaker, Lisa Dickinson. Over 2,000 luminaria bags, which were purchased to honor cancer survivors or in memory of loved ones who lost their battle against this illness, were filled with sand and a candle. The bags were lined up along the track and lit, giving a beautiful, somber reminder of how many lives are touched by cancer. A performance of Amazing Grace by Leah DiMase was the finishing touch to the luminaria ceremony and brought tears to the eyes of many Relay participants.
All funds raised will be used for research, education and patient service programs in Dutchess County. If you would like to contribute you can send checks made payable to The American Cancer Society to: The American Cancer Society, Reade Place, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12601.
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