Relay for Life of Sussex County raises funds

Getting ready for the Relay for Life Sept. 10 are (l-r) Event Chair Kathy Blanchette, Marketing Director Rob Smith and American Cancer Society Senior Community Manager Debbie White. DAN COOK PHOTOS

Dan Cook

September 17, 2022

The Sussex County Relay for Life took place Sept. 10 at Sandhill Fields in Georgetown. The event is the largest fundraising activity for the American Cancer Society. Local programs support cancer patients and caregivers.

Ten teams, having nearly 150 participants, raised more than $40,000 toward the $75,000 goal.

This year’s local, family-friendly event, themed Giving Cancer the Boot, included a car show, DJ, food trucks, fun and games for all involved. The traditional luminaria ceremony was held at sundown to honor cancer survivors and remember those lost.

“The leadership committee worked hard all year to put this amazing event together to remember those that lost their battle to cancer and celebrate the survivors,” said Event Chair Kathy Blanchette. “We are always looking for volunteers and teams to join our fight in Giving Cancer the Boot.”

Those who would like to donate can go to www.relayforlife.org/Sussexcode.

Cancer survivors walk the lead lap of Relay for Life.

Millsboro Kiwanis members attending the event are in back (l-r) Cindy Vincent, Susan LaFontaine, John Kywelski, Marianna Smith, Amie Parker and Darlene Phillips with Buster. In front are Kristen Subach and Shirley Dennis.

Melissa Lathrop walked for her friend Amanda York’s daughter Maddie McGinnis, who passed away from brain cancer nearly two years ago.

Matthew Westcott tosses a ring around the horse’s neck at the Grace Church.

Holding down the Beebe Healthcare oncology booth are (l-r) Rita Williams, Shadow Perry, Susan Otroba and Christine Allen.

Members of the Tatiana Akinfieva Dance Academy show their support for Relay for Life. Shown are (l-r) Cambri String, 8, Miss Delaware Outstanding Teen; Brynn String, 15; Zoe Lasher, 16; Gabby Morgan, 15; Grace Minner, 17; Ava Brozefsky, 13; Carmie Blanchette, 16; Caitlyn Fannin, 13; and directors Aimee String and Misty Yencer.