W. Islip's First Relay for Life Set for June

This story was posted by Scott P. Moore. It was written and reported by Kaitlyn Piccoli.

The school year is winding down, but West Islip’s Relay for Life is just getting started.

The American Cancer Society fundraiser—West Islip’s first—will take place at the high school track on June 15 and 16.

Relay For Life is a non-competitive overnight event in which teams of friends, neighbors, families and co-workers commit to keeping at least one team member walking around a track at all times.

Those interested in registering or donating should visit the Relay for Life website or stop by an informational meeting on Tuesday, June 4 at 7 p.m. in the high school’s Cafeteria C.

The schedule of events is as follows:

June 15

Opening Ceremony: 6 p.m.
The Opening Ceremony brings everyone together for a high-energy event kickoff to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, to inspire hope by sharing recent accomplishments and progress and to remind everyone that while we are winning this battle, fighting cancer is a year-round priority.

Survivor Lap: 6:30 p.m.
During the Survivors' Lap, upbeat music plays as all cancer survivors at the event take the first lap around the track cheered on by the other participants who line the track, celebrating their victory over cancer.

Luminaria Ceremony: 9 p.m.
The Luminaria Ceremony is a time to remember those who lost their battle against cancer, to support people who currently have cancer and to honor people who have fought cancer in the past.

June 16

Fight Back Ceremony: 12 a.m.
The Fight Back Ceremony symbolizes the emotional commitment each participant makes to the fight against cancer. The action taken represents what each person is willing to do for themselves, for loved ones and for the community to fight cancer year-round and to commit to saving lives.

Closing Ceremony: 5:30 a.m.
The Closing Ceremony is a time to remember the lives of those lost and to celebrate what each participant has committed, through their participation in a Relay event and to fight back against this disease over the next year.