Relay for Life Raises Nearly $100,000 at Annual Event

Even if it took all night, Wilmington residents were determined to do their part to help fight cancer. And on Friday night, at Shawsheen Technical High School, their many hours of work paid off.

Wilmington’s fifth annual Relay for Life event took place on Friday, and according to a press release from the American Cancer Society, local participants are on track to raise about $95,000.

The overnight fundraiser brought community members, volunteers, spectators and a total of 31 teams together as the town spiked its five-year total all the way up to $706,000.

“We’ve all been touched by cancer,” said Wilmington Town Manager Jeff Hull during opening remarks at the event, according to the press release. Ten-year cancer survivor Cathy Cook was also at the event, and she said “it’s still emotional” to be a part of the event and see so many people supporting the cause.

Among the groups in attendance as teams walked the track was the Wilmington High School Strings Attached band. Students played music during the Survivor Dinner. 

“It’s so meaningful to see this type of support from young adults,” said 23-year survivor Sheri Walsh, according to the press release. “We all hope that what we do now, raising money and awareness, makes cancer less of a factor for them in their lives.”

The Sons of Italy made their presence known at the event as they presented a check for $1,200. Fundraising will continue throughout the summer and residents can donate to this year’s Relay for Life until August 31. For more information, visit the organization’s website.

Committee chairman Joe Martiniello said it is the efforts of groups like the Sons of Italy that make the event so special.

“This is the type of community involvement that helps make our Relay such a success,” said Martiniello in the press release.