Manchester's Relay For Life Hits a Milestone

Cancer survivors prepared to lead the first lap around the track to kick off the 2015 Relay For Life event.

The 2015 Relay For Life of Manchester is now in the history books, and according to organizers, can be considered a great success despite a smaller turnout than in some previous years.

While total funds raised are not yet finalized, it was announced at midnight on June 20 as the event drew to a close, that the nine participating teams had raised in excess of $23,900 for cancer research and support, with nearly a third of that amount coming in via donations made the day of Relay.

With about 102 registered team members, the actual number of participants was easily more than double that amount. More people arrived throughout the day to join the fun and spend time walking the track, supporting the survivor brunch, watching and voting on the "Miss Relay" pageant, bidding on the Silent Auction, enjoying the varied food options, and participating in the luminaria ceremony that was held at 10 p.m.

"Manchester is an incredible community," said Heather Dixon, the American Cancer Society staff partner who coordinated the Manchester Event Leadership Team. "We totally pulled off this event and I'm very pleased with the results."

Donations are still being accepted for the 2015 Relay, both online and via mail. To make a contribution, click here and select a team or individual to whom you'd like to donate. Or you may mail donations to:

The American Cancer Society
Attention: Relay For Life of Manchester
20450 Civic Center Drive
Southfield, MI  48076

The luminaria ceremony that began at dusk is one of the highlights of any Relay event.

Thank you to the many community minded businesses and individuals who supported Relay For Life this year!

Event Leadership Team members Marsha Chartrand, Heather Dixon (ACS Staff Partner), and Mary Bortmas took time out to enjoy the photo booth provided by Throw Yo Hands Up Entertainment.

Survivors Mary Anzalone and Carol Graustein show off their face painting.

Face painting by the Kiwanis Kickers was just one of the many fun and popular activities for kids of all ages at Relay For Life.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.