North Whidbey Relay for Life gears up for another year

North Whidbey Relay for Life is ready and raring to raise money for 2010.

Dozens of supporters and team members attended a kick-off celebration Jan. 6 at the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge.

The festive evening, themed “Celebrating Life With More Birthdays,” included an oversized, three-tiered symbolic birthday cake, balloon hats and party decor.

Event Chair Karla Sharkey announced the schedule of events for the 2010 Relay, slated for Friday and Saturday, June 4 and 5. at the North Whidbey Middle School track.

Cancer survivors in attendance received flower packets or “Seeds of Faith” from the event organizers.

The June event marks the 24th anniversary of Relay for Life, which is designed to celebrate cancer survivors, support those fighting cancer and remember those who have lost the battle. Money raised by the 24-hours relay goes to the American Cancer Society to assist in research for a cure to cancer.

More than 100 teams, 1,500 participants, 31 sponsors and 250 cancer survivors participated in last year’s relay event at the North Whidbey Middle School track. During 2009, Island County raised $207,3999 for the cause.

Learn how to get involved in the American Cancer Society’s 2010 Relay for Life event on North Whidbey at a rally Wednesday, Feb. 10 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 155 NE Ernst St. There will be another rally March 10 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the same location.

Support the cause at a Flapjack Breakfast at Applebee’s, 31810 Highway 20, on March 13. Tickets cost $10 each.

Everyone can be a part of the Relay for Life, said Sharkey. Create a team, become a sponsor or be part of the planning committee.

Contact Karla Sharkey at 675-8091, email kksharkey123@comcast.net, or visit www.relayforlife.org/northwhidbeywa.

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