Dear Editor:

(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries of The Somerville News belong solely to the authors of those commentaries and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville News, its staff or publishers.)

As the Chairs for the American Cancer Society 2011 Relay For Life of Medford-Somerville we would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the many individuals that attended and supported this year’s event at Hormel Stadium in Medford. 

More than 300 people participated, helping to raise more than $75,000 for the society.  While the current economic climate continues to make fundraising more challenging for everybody, we are continually inspired by the dedication of all of our fellow volunteers who have redoubled their efforts to ensure this year’s success.

Relay For Life supports the society’s critical mission to save lives and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well, by preventing cancer or detecting it early; get well, by being in their corner through every step of their cancer experience; by finding cures, through groundbreaking research and treatment discoveries; and by fighting back, through influencing public policy.  The outstanding support received at Relay proves that the Medford and Somerville communities are truly committed to the fight against cancer.

We were honored to be joined by more than 50 survivors and caregivers who participated in the opening lap and survivor reception. These survivors are the reason we continue the fight. Their participation inspires hope in those currently battling cancer.

A special thanks to the many Relay For Life volunteers who worked to make this event a success.  The Relay For Life committee did an outstanding job of putting the event together.  Committee members included Ellen Bragalone, Lois Burge, Christina Cameron, Tamara Cleary, Kelly Corrigan, Katie Cullinane, Jeff Falkoff, Martha Giovenelli, Christine Hardy, Elena Klevsky, Tina Lavoie, Patti McCarthy, Caroline McCall, Mary Lou Patturelli, Anne Powers, Paula Sordillo and Pat Terilli.

We also appreciate the generosity of our sponsors including Capital Asset Services, Century Bank, Borislow Insurance, Price Waterhouse Coopers, First 1 Financial Corp., East Boston Savings Bank, Medford Lodge of Elks #915, Irish American Club of Malden and Armstrong Ambulance.  We would also like to give a very special thank you to all of our generous sponsors who donated a variety of items and food to the event.

Again, thank you for supporting the American Cancer Society, and remember it’s not too late to turn in any outstanding donations to support this year’s event, and never too early to get involved to help us plan for next year!  Visit www.RelayForLife.org/MedfordMA  to learn more.

Sincerely,

Linda Corrigan, Event Chair

Debbie Mitchell, Event Co-Chair

Susan Hodnett, Event Co-Chair