By Nance Ebert, Contributing Writer
Photo/Nance Ebert
Marlborough – In a sea of purple, Marlborough High School students and faculty gathered on the front stairwell at the end of the school day May 15 to take a group photo. Everyone wore a purple t-shirt to show his or her support in the fight against cancer. The high school is participating in “Paint the School Purple” in celebration of the annual Relay for Life of Hudson-Marlborough.
“This helps to raise awareness for the event. It is a visual display of hope and a reminder that there is a lot of support,” said Abby Zimage, community manager, Relay for Life New England Division/American Cancer Society.
This year’s Relay for Life will be held Friday, May 29, at Ghiloni Park beginning at 6 p.m. and continuing through the night until 6 a.m. Teams of eight to 15 people take turns walking with the goal of always having at least one member walking at all times.
“My sister died of cancer seven years ago,” said Bob Kays, co-chair of the event. “She spearheaded Relay for Life 25 years ago in Campbell, Calif. I got involved and help to coordinate the events for the Relay For Life. This is my sixth year helping and I helped take this event from one level to the next. This year we have 40 more teams than last. That is really awesome.”
Fifty-five teams signed up so far, with 35 survivors and about 300 participants. Local sponsors include Olive Garden of Marlborough, Marlborough Savings Bank, St. Mary’s Credit Union of Marlborough, Patriot Ambulance and Hudson Athletics.
“Seeing the Survivor Laps is very emotional. This is always a moment when I realize that this is why I do what I do,” Zimage noted.
To join a team, start a team, volunteer or register for a Survivor Lap, visit www.RelayForLife.org/marlborohudsonma.
