MARYSVILLE The Northern Snohomish American Cancer Society kicks off the local celebration of the 2008 Relay for Life at 6 p.m. Jan. 17 in the The Barn in Jennings Memorial Park, 6915 Armar Rd., Marysville.
Taking place at locations across the country, the Relay for Life is billed as the largest non-profit fundraiser in the world.
The kick-off event will feature inspirational speeches from cancer survivors, information on the Relay for Life and food and prizes.
Founded 20 years ago by a Tacoma physician, the Relay for Life has grown to be what the American Cancer Society touts as its best known fundraising event, held in 4,200 communities and having raised more than $1 billion toward cancer research, education and patient services.
Relay for Life is about inspiring hope, celebrating survivors, remembering those we lost and finding a cure for cancer, said Tracy Anderson, local event co-chair. This kick-off is to reinforce the fact that a community can make a difference in the fight against cancer.
This years North Snohomish Relay for Life takes place June 7-8 at Marysville-Pilchuck High School. Described as a family oriented event, Relay for Life asks teams of participants to walk, run or even stroll in shifts around the high school running track for 24 hours. Participants usually camp out around the track, enjoying food and entertainment when not taking their turn on the field.
For more information on the Relay for Life or the kick-off event, call Rebecca Gheen at 425- 322-1123.