BANGOR — The second annual Relay For Life of Penobscot took place May 15-16 at Morse Field on the University of Maine campus. Eighty-five registered cancer survivors and 53 teams participated in the event.
Thanks to donations from area sponsors, businesses and individuals, Relay For Life of Penobscot raised more than $125,000 dollars to further research, help patients get treatment and find a cure for cancer.
Giant Jenga, hula hooping with Manda Boyce of Twirl Hoops and a photo scavenger hunt kept participants entertained while taking breaks from walking. Kristy Albee taught a 50-minute Zumba session that warmed up the crowd. The “Party Like it’s 1985” theme translated to all entertainment, including Dress Up Your Team Captain and Pin the Glove on Michael.
“Relay For Life of Penobscot’s Event Leadership Team would like to thank the cancer survivors, caregivers and community members who fundraised, walked the track, and served or donated food for our survivors’ banquet,” said Event Leader Karen Girvan. “Our community is what enables us to continue holding this event year after year. Support from our news teams, local businesses and organizations keep Relay For Life of Penobscot on the map.”
Fundraisers at the event consisted of raffles for hundreds of restaurant and business gift cards, an Old Town Canoe Kayak, 50/50 raffles and more. Other teams sold food, drinks and sweets, including a third generation chop suey recipe that is well-guarded.
There is still time to donate to this year’s event or participate in other Relays throughout Maine. In Bangor, Bark For Life is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, with proceeds also benefiting the American Cancer Society. To donate or learn more, visit relayforlife.org/penobscotme or Bark For Life at relayforlife.org/barkbangor.