Dearborn Relay for Life Surpasses Goal, Sets Sights to 2014

Relay for Life organizers in Dearborn announced that the event surpassed its goal for 2013 by raising $120,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Relay for Life is a 24-hour community walk with a goal to raise as much money as possible for cancer education, cancer screenings, transportation and housing for cancer patients and cancer research. Teams camp out during the event on the field behind the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, and there are activities going on the entire 24 hours.

This year’s event had a "Rockin’ Through The Ages" theme and celebrated 83 cancer survivors with a ceremony and luncheon. In addition, more than 1,000 luminaria bags were lit in memory of Dearborn residents who died from cancer.

Elizabeth Sawielski, senior community representative for Relay for Life, said more than 500 people and 47 teams came together to support the fundraiser on April 27-28. Dearborn's fundraising goal was $100,000.

"We are so proud of Dearborn for raising so many cancer fighting dollars. But, there is still work to do! We need to make it so three out of three people diagnosed with cancer are surviving,” Sawielski said. “The teams worked so hard to raise the money, and we are especially grateful to the families and friends who participated, as well as the sponsors who made this event possible.”

Team Dearborn, led by Amy and Amanda Stegner, was the top fundraising group for the year. The team raised more than $32,000 for ACS. Other top teams included Cool Chicks Conquering Cancer ($8,000) and the Dearborn Police Department ($7,000). Team Tiffany took home the Rookie Team Of The Year Award, and the Dearborn Commission of Disability Concerns took home the Spirit Award.

Donations are still being accepted for the relay. All money received by Aug. 31 will count towards the 2013 final total. You can make a donation online at www.relayforlife.org/dearbornmi, or mail checks to the American Cancer Society, Relay For Life of Dearborn, 20450 Civic Center Drive, Southfield, MI. 48076.

Relay for Life organizers are slowly starting to plan for 2014 and are in need of volunteers. For more information, contact Liz at 248-663-3406, or email Elizabeth.Sawielski@cancer.org.