FMB supports the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer
To the editor:
Most of us have heard of the American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life”, an annual event in many communities across the USA and abroad celebrating cancer survivors and remembering loved ones lost. But did you know that Fort Myers Beach’s 1st Relay was in 2004. Fifteen teams made up from many volunteers hosted the event which was a huge success. Each subsequent Relay had a goal amount that the local teams worked to raise to give to the American Cancer Society. This year will be FMB’s seventh Relay. The goal for the 2010 Relay is $95,000. Although the “Prom” of events is the Relay, the teams actually work hard at many various fund raisers (i.e. garage sales, bake, books, arts & craft sales, dinners, car washes, etc.) all year long to contribute to the relay goal. The American Cancer Society uses these funds to invest in life saving research, offers programs that give support for cancer patients and their care givers and educate people about prevention and early detection.
This year our FMB Relay will be held on March 20, on the beach in front of the Holiday Inn and is named “Island of Hope, Cast Away Cancer.” It is an 18-hour walking relay around a luminary-etched track, starting at noon on Saturday and ending at 6 a.m. on Sunday. So far there are 13 teams of volunteers, (everyone is invited to participate) that will have booths, fun activities and walk laps. Raffles, prizes, crafts, food, luminaries, are all a part of this Celebration of Life, Remembrance and Hope. You can go to www.relayforlife.org/fortmyersbeachfl to get more information or to volunteer support.
On Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Beach Theatre’s Lot their will be a Survivor’s Celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to raise awareness of the American Cancer Society’s free programs and this year’s FMB Relay. There will be booths offering information and snacks to Cancer Survivors.
My family has been stricken by cancer and I am eternally grateful for all of the support we have received. I am so glad that we have voluntary organizations that are dedicated to eliminating cancer. I am grateful that FMB businesses, organizations and individual volunteers are devoting time and effort to raise awareness and donations to fight cancer. What a great place to live! Thank You!
Rose Loudermilk
Fort Myers Beach