Event honors cancer survivors

FREEHOLD — As a crowd cheered them on, more than 80 cancer survivors walked the first lap in celebration of their victory over cancer at the annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life, held overnight June 1-2 at Freehold Raceway.

The annual event raised more than $225,000 to support lifesaving research, as well as local education, advocacy and patient service programs, according to a press release from the American Cancer Society.

More than 2,500 people came out to take their turns walking or running, relay-style, in an effort to fight cancer in Monmouth County.

The highlight of the evening was the luminaria service held to honor cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost the battle against the disease. Luminaria candles lined the perimeter of the track, lighting the path of hope for walkers and runners.

On the sidelines, teams enjoyed a variety of entertainment and activities scheduled throughout the night.

"We appreciate all the support we received from each of the teams as well as from our event sponsors and underwriters, including Greater Media Newspapers; Lomurro, Davison, Eastman and Munoz; and Builders’ General Supply Co.," said Patricia Tupycia, American Cancer Society Relay for Life director. "We are especially grateful to the many volunteers and their families for all of their hard work to make this event happen."

Since the first Relay for Life was held in 1985 in Tacoma, Wash., the event has raised more than $732 million.

Last year, Relay for Life raised more than $1.8 million in New Jersey.