Pomona Relay for Life kicks off Saturday morning

POMONA - The Relay for Life comes to the Pomona Civic Center Plaza, 505 S. Garey Ave., Saturday as part of an effort to raise awareness about cancer.

The 24-hour event kicks off at 8:30 a.m. with an opening ceremony that will include the family of young boy battling kidney cancer, said event chairwoman Joan Orozco.

At 9 a.m. teams will start walking relay-style to raise money in support of services and programs for local cancer patients.

Walking teams include friends, family members and co-workers of people who are cancer survivors and victims. Cancer survivors are also participating in the relay.

At the same time team members are walking around the plaza various family-friendly activities will take place at the plaza, Orozco said.

People can stop by and learn about the services available through the American Cancer Society as well as pick up information on the disease, its various forms, and how to prevent developing it, she said.

At 9 p.m. luminaria bags will be lit as part of a ceremony to remember cancer victims.

At 8:30 a.m. Sunday the event winds down with a closing ceremony.

Teams wishing to participate in the walk can register at 8 a.m today at the Civic Center Plaza.

Organizers have about 21 teams taking part in the relay with a goal of raising $25,000, Orozco said.

Although another relay takes place at Cal Poly Pomona later this year, this event is meant to draw more residents of the city and increase their awareness about cancer along with making people aware of the service the American Cancer Society has to offer, she said.