Relay for Life Is Coming to Rye

RYE, N.Y. – Relay for Life, one of the largest cancer fundraising organizations in the nation, is coming to Rye for the first time in 2012. The nationwide event is already established in 12 other locations in Westchester County and the American Cancer Society is looking to make Rye lucky number 13.

"This overnight community fundraising event represents hope that those lost to cancer will not be forgotten – that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day, cancer will be eliminated,” said Megan McGrady, spokesperson for the Westchester division of the American Cancer Society.

McGrady expressed gratitude towards the many community organizations that have already extended their early support for the event.

"We have the beginnings of a group of volunteers who are interested in being involved in running the event," McGrady said. "Many of them are affiliated with Sole Ryeders, who have reasons for wanting to fight back against cancer.”

Sole Ryeders, founded by Rye resident Sandy Samberg, is a community-based charitable organization committed to providing and supporting local cancer-related programs. Since its creation in 2007 Sole Ryeders has raised more than $1 million from its participation in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

Other organizations that have expressed interest in getting involved include the Rye YMCA and Rye High School.

"It's still very early in the process," McGrady added. "We haven't even set a date or location yet, but we have some solid possibilities.”

Although there is no concrete date for the event, the American Cancer Society has scheduled a Relay for Life kick-off party for Tuesday, Jan. 24 at the Rye YMCA. For more information regarding Relay for Life, contact Megan McGrady at 914-397-8803 or email her at this address. You can also visit the Relay for Life website at www.relayforlife.org.

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