Fairfield, CT -- The Relay For Life of Fairfield Planning Committee is seeking nominations of Fairfield residents for the positions of Adult Honorary Chair and Youth Honorary Chair for 2017. An honorary chairperson is someone in the community who has been affected by cancer in some way. He or she can be a cancer survivor, or a caregiver or family member of a survivor. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Fairfield Relay For Life.
“Survivors are the heartbeat of our event every year, and our Honorary Chairs are the face of that inspirational group,” said Joseph Barbetta, a member of the New England Board of Directors of the American Cancer Society and an event organizer. “In sharing their stories of courage and hope they shine a light on the great progress we've made, while reminding us of the work that lies ahead.”
The individuals nominated need to be willing to share their story about their cancer journey to the public and be available for interviews with local TV, radio, newspapers and on social media.
They are asked to speak at Team Meetings, the Kick Off event and during the Survivor & Caregiver Reception and Opening Ceremonies at the 2017 Relay For Life of Fairfield. The two individuals selected must be available on Saturday, June 10, 2017 in Fairfield, to lead the Survivor Lap at Fairfield Ludlowe High School track.
Last year’s honorees were Giacomo Brancato (youth) and Fae Willett (adult). Recent honorees included Cameron Yates (youth) and Ilene Young in 2015; Viviana Rivera (youth) and Paul Fletcher in 2014; and Nora Turner (youth) and Debby Dwyer in 2013.
About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 2.5 million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society’s efforts have contributed to a 22 percent decline in cancer death rates in the U.S. since 1991, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates. Thanks in part to our progress; 14.5 million Americans who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will celebrate more birthdays this year. We’re determined to finish the fight against cancer. We’re finding cures as the nation’s largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air, and more. For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.