200 Join in Fight Against Cancer at Relay For Life, West Maui

More than 200 individuals participated in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of West Maui presented by the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua over the weekend, on Aug. 19, 2017 at Lahaina Recreation Center.

The event raised more than $67,000 to support the American Cancer Society’s mission of saving lives from cancer. Funds raised will help the organization provide free information and support for people facing the disease today, and fund cancer research to help protect future generations.

“It was inspirational to see people from all parts of our community come out to support us and help save lives from cancer,” said Event Chair Angela Berkey. “Together, we celebrated those surviving cancer, remembered loved ones lost, and took tangible action to make a difference.”

“My favorite part about Relay is cheering on the survivors and caregivers as they make a lap around the track,” said American Cancer Society staff partner Joni Celiz. “It’s inspiring to see them with smiles on their faces – it’s a testament to their strength.”

Survivors and caregivers were honored with a special dinner hosted by the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church. Families participated in exercise activities that included zumba, boxing, and line dancing. Miss Maui 2017 Casey Salcedo danced an impromptu hula performance and helped showcase a bra-decorating contest. Attendees were also treated to special performances by Arlie Asiu, Maui Taiko Drums, Old Lahaina Lūʻau, and Maʻa Band.

The following teams were recognized for their extraordinary efforts to raise funds in the fight against cancer: The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, TS Restaurants, and The Whaler Kāʻanapali Beach. Individuals, Becs Alexander, Richard Nishihara, Laurie De Coite, and Rose Ann Navarro also were recognized for raising over $1,000 each.

Relay for Life of West Maui also recognized the following sponsors: The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Pacific Media Group, Honua Kai Resort & Spa, VIP Food Service & Island Grocery Depot, Service Rentals, NorthWest Electric, Friends of Senator Roz Baker, Lahaina Hongwanji Mission, Sargent’s Fine Art & Jewelry, Expeditions, Sakamoto Properties and Aloha Waste.

Donations are still being accepted at: RelayForLife.org/westmauihi.

Relay for Life, West Maui, 2017.

Relay for Life, West Maui, 2017. Tents honor Lahaina child Ryan Luis Recites who passed away from cancer in 2016.