Burr Ridge, IL – Hundreds of students and staff from Pleasantdale Middle School will join cancer survivors in a symbolic walk Thursday morning to support the American Cancer Society in the school’s 17th annual Relay for Life.
According to event organizers, the benefit is scheduled for Thursday, June 5, from 8:45 to 10:30 a.m. at Walker Park, 7425 S. Wolf Rd., directly across from the school. The event, held each year on the final day of classes, has raised more than $117,000 since it began in 2008.
Pleasantdale fifth grade science teacher and cancer survivor Jennifer Lauermann, of Lisle, coordinates the event. “We want to stop this disease in its tracks,” Lauermann said. “We’ll honor the lives lost to cancer, celebrate survivors, and support caregivers who so selflessly help others.”
Participants will gather at 8:30 a.m. for a brief sendoff ceremony before beginning a one-mile walk or run through the park. Students have spent weeks raising funds through lemonade stands, bake sales, garage sales, and neighborhood donations.
Lauermann’s personal connection to the cause runs deep. She lost her father, Robert Federighi, formerly of Dallas, to cancer. Her mother, Jean Benson of Aurora, a two-time survivor, will be honored during the event.
Last year’s relay raised $11,000. Proceeds help fund cancer research, transportation and lodging for patients, and free information services provided by the American Cancer Society.
The event will conclude near 10 a.m. at a Walker Park shelter, where students will present a ceremonial check for the funds raised.
Organizers encourage community members to attend or donate in honor or memory of loved ones affected by cancer.
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