Relay for Life helps people in local community

The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life helps cancer patients--past, present and future patients — on more than one level.

Proceeds from the event fund cancer research, education, prevention and patient services.

“The money we raise primarily goes to research at the grass roots level,” explained Abbie Davis, Relay for Life community relationship manager.

The American Cancer Society receives grant applications and funds approximately 12 percent of the top grant applications.

Of those researchers, 48 have become Nobel Prize winners. Locally, a Washington State University professor is studying algae to advance cancer research, said Davis.

The money raised also helps get people through treatment and that is where the funds are spent locally, said Davis.

Funds help the “Road to Recovery” program which matches volunteer drivers with cancer patients needing rides to treatment.

The American Cancer Society also helps provide free lodging for those undergoing cancer treatment.

The Spokane division is third in the nation for giving free lodging to cancer patients, according to Davis.

“The American Cancer Society was very helpful to us,” said Dean Satchwell, a cancer survivor. “You’re helping me. I appreciate it. There is a definite need for help up here.”

Seventy-two cents of every dollar raised goes to fulfill the American Cancer Society’s missions, including research, survivorship and quality of life.

The goal of the American Cancer Society is to have three out of three people survive cancer.

Currently, survivorship is two out of three, explained Davis.

“I don’t want our kids to know cancer,” said Davis.

Davis has a goal of the community raising $25,000 during the first annual Bonners Ferry Relay for Life.

Community members can help reach this goal by forming a team and fundraising, supporting fundraising efforts, becoming a business sponsor, volunteering to help organize the event and/or participating in the Relay for Life event.

• For more information on how to participate, come to the next Relay for Life meeting on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. at Riverside Auto Center.

For more information and updates on Relay for Life, visit www.relayforlife.org/bonnersferryid or visit the local Facebook page: Bonners Ferry Relay for Life.