WATSONVILLE — More than 1.7 million people across the United States are expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, according to the American Cancer Society.
Even worse, more than 600,000 Americans are expected to die in 2018 from the disease.
But statistics released by the American Cancer Society have shown a positive downward trend. After the death rate peaked in 1991 at 215 cancer deaths per 100,000 people, the number dropped 26 percent by 2015.
Fundraising events for the American Cancer Society such as Relay For Life are crucial to help the organize research the disease and support those afflicted by it.
The organization got a major boost from Watsonville on Saturday and Sunday when the annual Relay For Life at Watsonville High School raised more than $100,000. While the numbers are still being counted, it far exceeded this year’s goal of $80,000, and last year’s $63,000 raised.
The fundraising event, which takes place in more than 20 countries, requires team members to take turns walking on the track for 24 hours.
This year’s event in Watsonville is co-chaired by Barbie Gomez and Esther Morillo, two long-time Relay participants.
Gomez said she joined the Relay 13 years ago as a community supporter, but just a few years later her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“Cancer has affected more people more than ever,” she said. “People want to step up and make a difference.”
Morillo called the large turnout at the weekend event “awesome.”
“We have so much to be thankful for,” she said as she embraced Gomez. “The community has definitely pulled through.”
Gomez agreed.
“This town has shown its love and support,” she said.
New this year, the event includes a car show as well as football and basketball tournaments.
As part of tradition, the opening lap of the Relay consisted of cancer survivors.
Veronica Saavedra of Watsonville joined the Relay for the first time, walking in the opening lap. She said cancer has afflicted a number of her family members, and she is a survivor herself.
“I came out to show my support and do what I could,” Saavedra said, adding that she wanted to join a team for next year’s event.
Rita Pina, a 13-year cancer survivor, is this year’s top individual fundraiser, with more than $4,000 raised. But she was quick to note that fundraising was a team effort, with her team Pink Angels raising more than $7,000.
“We all do this as a team,” she said. “We’re a family. We won’t stop until we find a cure.”
