For the past four decades, people fighting cancer have gathered to strengthen that battle at the annual Relay For Life.
That event unfolded Saturday at Watsonville High School, where dozens of cancer fighters and their supporters joined in a flurry of games, live music, food, information tables, dance performances and the Relay Rompin Stompin Cancer Car Show.
Above all, Relay For Life raises funds to further the cause of cancer research, recovery and education for the American Cancer Society.
Pepper Sharpe said she flew out from Florida to support her friends with cancer, and one who died from the disease.
“It’s so important to be here,” she said, while sporting 1950s vintage attire and a brightly colored sun parasol. “This looks like a really good showing.”
Sharpe and a friend from L.A. joined forces with the local fashion group Diamond Damsels. That group was part of a fashion contest that ran alongside a raffle with 40 gift baskets, the Relay Cornhole Tournament and the Kid’s Zone featuring face painting, games and more.
Mark Martinez showed his 1954 Foremost milk truck in the car show, which is packed with old milk bottles and crates.
“I’ve had people walk up to me and offer me $20,000 for it,” he said. “People love it.”
Esther Morillo of Watsonville said she has headed up the event for the past 20 years.
“Everybody is here out of the kindness of their hearts,” she said. “We get so many donations, contributions and overall care. This is just one of many events we run all year-long to help battle this disease.”
