Rocky Point Holds Mini Relay for Life

Joseph A. Edgar Intermediate School recently held its annual Mini Relay For Life, a fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. More than 340 students, staff and family members joined the fight against cancer by participating in this walking event and helping to raise $12,019 for the cause.

Leading the way in fundraising this year was third-grader Julia Darby, who single-handedly collected $3,110 in donations. 

 “When I was diagnosed almost seven years ago, I vowed that I would do everything I could to bring awareness and raise funds so that no one else needs to hear the words ‘you have cancer,’” said event organizer and JAE physical education teacher Maria Amoscato. “What better way to do that than to educate our future?” 

Before taking to the track in front of the school, participants met in the gymnasium for a kickoff event. In addition to a welcome address by Amoscato, attendees heard  from teacher Mark Yashowitz, who shared how cancer had affected a member of his family. 

Once outside, participants walked a track in the school parking lot and students earned white and purple beads to place on a necklace to record every mile walked. They also had the chance to take part in a variety of raffles hosted throughout the event.

During the 90-minute walk, several students walked as many as eight or nine miles.  Over the past five years, the school has collected over $42,000 for this cause and this year’s total of $12,019 was its highest to date. 

The entire community will have a chance to help this worthy cause during the upcoming Rocky Point Relay For Life event, which will take place on the track at Rocky Point High School beginning at 6 p.m. on June 7 and run until 6 a.m. on June 8.