Lynbrook Relay for Life Raises Over $66K

Teams gathered on the field of on Saturday for the
Lynbrook School District’s fifth annual Relay for Life event, raising awareness and funds to fight cancer.

This year, Lynbrook students, staff members and residents were joined by members of the East Rockaway community. The event raised over $66,000 to benefit the American Cancer Society.

The evening kicked off with music as participants filed onto the field, set up tents
and banners, and enjoyed the spring weather. Judy Wichter, Special Events Manager for the American Cancer Society, thanked everyone for coming and introduced other important guests.

“Tonight we will celebrate our cancer survivors, and we will also remember those
who lost their battle,” she said. Wichter then thanked the Lynbrook School District
and Superintendent Dr. Barbarino for his support.

“There are so many things that have happened on this field and track – many
Lynbrook victories – but nothing is more meaningful than what we are doing here
tonight,” said Dr. Barbarino as he provided welcoming remarks. He also praised a group of students, known as the Dream Team, who organized a special effort to raise funds for a student in the district by selling lemonade at Relay for Life. The Dream Team raised $1,000 before the opening ceremonies even began, and continued to earn proceeds for their cause throughout the evening.

The Relay officially started with a survivor’s lap, for those who have bravely
battled cancer. The survivors were then joined by their caretakers and the other
participants, who took turns circling the track throughout the night.

One of the highlights of the evening was a solemn luminaria ceremony, during which luminaria bags were placed around the track in memory and honor of friends and loved ones who had valiantly fought cancer. Although a rainstorm prevented the lighting of the luminaria candles, it did not dampen the spirit of hope that prevailed.

Participants “lit” the luminaria with glow sticks, symbolizing the spirit and resourcefulness of those who overcome so many unexpected obstacles in their fight against cancer.

The top fundraising teams were the Lynbrook Buckeyes, which, under the leadership of team captain Adam Glickman, raised over $16,000. Other top fundraisers were Kelley’s Keepers and Laura’Z Angels, each contributing over $3,000. Some of the top sponsors were Astoria Federal Savings, One on One Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation, and Atmosphere Casting.

In what has become an annual tradition, Lynbrook kindergartners did their part to
support Relay for Life by inviting their families to join them for their own mini-relay at the Kindergarten Center the week before the larger event. The kindergartners were proud to contribute nearly $1,300 through their efforts.