Join the Fight for Hope

Mark your calendars for the inaugural Fight Cancer Fest of CNY on May 5 at the New York State Fairgrounds, a family-friendly event that evolved from Relay for Life events. We talked with Rebecca Flint, senior community development manager for the northeast region of the American Cancer Society, to learn more.

SWM: This event has evolved from the Relay for Life, right? How was that decision made?

Rebecca: Yes, we combined three of our longstanding Relay for Life events, and are excited to host the first Fight Cancer Fest of CNY. We really needed to listen to our volunteers and evolve as an organization in the Central New York market. Change is good when it’s what the community is asking for!

SWM: Talk about the process of planning this event.

Rebecca: The American Cancer Society is a volunteer-led organization, and this event is no different. We have a dedicated group of committee members who have worked collaboratively to ensure a successful event in May. Seasoned volunteers from the three combined events have come together during the past six months to form a strong and unified committee that works closely with the staff partner at the American Cancer Society. This partnership between staff and volunteers is essential to both the success of the event and our ability to continue to fund the mission.

SWM: What aspects of the Relay for Life are being carried over to the Fight Cancer Fest?

Rebecca: Survivor recognition and celebration of those we have lost are still a key component to the event. We are dedicated to celebrating lives, saving lives and leading the fight for a world without cancer. Relay for Life was successful because of the strong team aspect that it brought to the event, which is still a large key element for Fight Cancer Fest. Onsite team fundraising will continue as an anchor of the event.

SWM: What new elements can people expect?

Rebecca: We hope you will join us on Saturday, May 5, from noon to 8 p.m. for live music by musicians including Jam Theory, My So-Called Band, Savannah Harmon, The Chillerz and The Scoundrels. There will also be local vendors, a cornhole tournament, games, raffles, concessions and more! Cancer survivors will be treated to a special survivor lunch and dinner provided by Finally Ours restaurant.

SWM: For those readers just learning about Fight Cancer Fest, how can they get involved?

Rebecca: Visit our website at fightcancerfestcny.org to learn more and start a team. Invite survivors, family, friends, co-workers and neighbors to join in the fight against cancer. Be sure to follow us on Facebook at Fight Cancer Fest of Central New York to hear about the latest event updates and information.

SWM: What other ways can people get involved in the fight against cancer?

Rebecca: The American Cancer Society is dedicated to attacking cancer from every angle. This means funding groundbreaking research and
focusing on access to care for cancer patients. Visit cancer.org to learn about volunteer opportunities, as well as hear about other events taking place in the community! SWM

For more information, visit fightcancerfestcny.org or cancer.org.