Relay for Life raises over $355,000, has 1,500 walkers

Crosby Kindergarten Principal Ronnie Davenport as he begins the Survivor’s lap at Stallworth Stadium.

BY BOBBY HORN JR.

BAYTOWN– Over 1,500 people, representing 102 teams gave of their time and energy this past weekend to help make the Bay Area Relay for Life a success.

This annual event features teams competing against each other in fundraising efforts, with all money going to the American Cancer Society. The event culminates in a 16-hour walkathon, as team members join together to walk around the football field at Stallworth Stadium in solidarity against cancer.

For the past two years, the Baytown chapter has been the single largest fundraiser in Texas, with last year becoming the first chapter to break the $300,000 mark. Julie DeTorre, one of the organizers of the event, said that Baytown is poised for a three-peat, having already brought in over $355,000. DeTorre said that there are still pledges to be collected and additional monies collected and that by the August 30 deadline, they expect to have raised over $360,000.

Each year the Relay begins with cancer survivors taking the opening lap. This year 250 survivors, along with family and friends, marched in the opening lap. This was followed by team walking, which featured Lee College leading the procession.

Just after 9 p.m. the stadium took on a glow of hope and remembrance as over 5,000 luminaria, honoring those who have cancer and in memory of those who have died from cancer, were lit and the stadium lights were turned off. Walkers continued to march in the light of the ring of candles as the names were read.