The first Relay for Life of Ramsey was held in 2008. Since that time, the event has raised $1,993,215.000! Just shy of $2,000,000!
This year, our goal is to raise over $100,000; we are well on our way! The RHS girls volleyball team held a Spike Out Cancer event in October and raised $2800 which they donated to RFL. Lakeland Bank’s donation of $6400 brought us over the two million dollar threshold! With each donation, we are that much closer to funding a cure. The American Cancer Society supports research and patients of all cancers. With so many types of cancer cells, and the fact that the cells learn and adapt, a cure has been elusive.
Join us on January 21st for Tip-Off! The boys and girls Varsity basketball teams will be hosting a Mahwah at 6pm and 8pm. There will be raffle prizes, information tables about becoming involved with RFL and other fun activities. Tickets and shirts for the “WhiteOut” are being sold in advance. Contact Maria Mitchell at MMitchell@ramsey.k12.nj.us Cannot make it then? Join us on June 5th for Relay “There is No Off-Season.”
Katy Dinning “Why I Relay”
I have been apart of Relay for Life of Ramsey since I was in the 5th grade with my team the “Purple Pandas”. Ever since then, Relay for Life has been something I have looked forward to each year as it unites the community against one common enemy: cancer. This disease has touched everyone’s life in one way or another so to have this event to fight back is not only beneficial but comforting to know those who are battling are not alone in their journey. Cancer has affected those dear to my heart but Relay for Life is an empowering way to make a stand and aid in finding a cure. Now at Ramsey High School, the Relay for Life committee is working hard to set the tone for a productive and encouraging Relay season! Our events get kicked off on January 21st with the “Rivals on the Court, United Against Cancer” Tip Off game against Mahwah High School. All proceeds will go directly to Relay for Life so make sure you come and support our Rams in the double-header! I relay in memory of those who have lost their battle as well as those who are fighting since this event creates hope for those who need it the most.
Alex Tateossian “Why I Relay”
I was on a Relay for Life team in eighth grade and I never realized the magnitude of the event until I participated. As soon as I heard that I could be a part of the planning committee freshman year, I was thrilled. I love being behind the scenes of big events and this is a cause that is close to my heart. After losing a close family friend, my family was distraught. I could not grasp the reason for his death being so young. As I have grown, I now understand what my family endured. As a committee member, it makes me feel like I am making a difference for my family, and others in the community. Being on the committee has had a positive impact on my collaboration and adaptability skills. Being able to work with many people for a large event is rewarding because as you are delegated a task, you are helping the team run efficiently. The more an individual is able to accomplish for this event, the more powerful we are able to make it. Since this is a town-wide event, there are times where we had to adapt. As a team, we would come up with solutions that allowed the event to run very smoothly. Working on this committee for the last four years has been an incredible experience that I will always remember.
Caroline Doherty “Why I Relay”
I have been involved in Ramsey’s Relay for Life since 6th grade where I was part of the team Proud in Pink for four years. When I arrived at the high school freshman year, I was eager to join the planning committee and help make this event come to life. Cancer does not discriminate and has not spared my family, affecting both sides and close family friends throughout my life. Being involved in Relay helps me better understand this disease we cannot control, and contribute to my community in a positive way. Tip-Off is a way to unite our town and spread awareness for the upcoming Relay event while encouraging people to spread the word and find ways to get involved. This year, our Tip-Off event will be taking place on Tuesday, January 21st at the Ramsey vs. Mahwah girls and boys basketball games in the Murray Gym at Ramsey High School. The girls are playing at 6pm and the boys are playing at 8pm with bake sales and games taking place throughout the night. We are anticipating a big crowd and look forward to a successful start to Relay.