LIHU‘E — Hundreds of people of all ages converged at the Vidinha Stadium soccer fields for the annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life on Saturday.
“I can’t believe that I was diagnosed with cancer,” said Wendy Casillas. “Cancer strikes other people. I couldn’t believe it when the doctors diagnosed my cancer. I just completed my chemo therapy, and so far, I’ve been clean with no cancer.”
Casillas was one of the group of survivors who were celebrated for beating cancer. They were celebrated along with caregivers who provide lifesaving support for cancer victims. And finally, people who support the fight against cancer and find cures.
The Relay for Life celebrates the survivors and their fight against cancer, while also raising funds for cancer research and efforts at keeping survivors healthy. The relay also remembers those people who succumbed to cancer with the circle of luminaria that forms the path relay walkers traverse.
Kittfrin Cade, of the American Cancer Society, Kaua‘i office, was thrilled to announce that the Relay for Life had raised more than $100,000 through the efforts of cancer fighters and their respective teams.
“We have a goal of $130,000 for Kaua‘i,” Cade said. “And we still have our silent auction coming up.”
According to the Kaua‘i Relay of Life website, Kaua‘i has raised more than $107,000 led by efforts of individual fundraisers and teams.
Samanta Jacinto, of Team Sam Jacinto, has raised more than $7,400. followed by Allison Toma raising more than $5,000.
The Koa Lani JV team has more than $12,000, followed by Team Sam Jacinto with more than $11,000 and the Lihu‘e Dharma Dragons with nearly $11,000 with its board games-themed camp.
