Fight Cancer With Relay For Life at La Jolla High; Registration Still Open

Story by Kyle Lundberg

The American Cancer Society is taking the fight against cancer to the pavement with this year’s Relay for Life.

This weekend's walk at La Jolla High School is one of 5,000 given across the nation throughout the year to help raise awareness and funding for cancer research.

“It’s a cause we’re really passionate about,” said Event Chair Jamie Meronoff, who runs the La Jolla walk with his wife.

Meronoff, a La Jolla resident and alumnus of La Jolla High School, lost his cousin to cancer when he was 19.

“Cancer hit our family pretty hard,” he said.

It was Meronoff’s brother who first got involved with Relay for Life, and it wasn’t long before Meronoff decided to join the cause. He was previously the chair of the downtown San Diego relay, which this year will take place Aug. 13.

The La Jolla walk is a 24-hour march that begins at 9 a.m. Saturday on the La Jolla High School track with an opening ceremony, followed by a survivor’s lap where all cancer survivors take the first lap.

In the evening during the Luminaria Ceremony, pictures and quotes from loved ones who have lost to or are currently battling cancer are displayed. Battery operated candles light the way as participants march through the night. The walk concludes at 8 a.m. Sunday with the Fight Back ceremony, where participants make a symbolic commitment to continuing their efforts to help find a cure for cancer.

According to statistics from the National Cancer Institute, cancer death rates in the U.S. have declined steadily over the past decade. And yet, more than 1,500 people with cancer die every day in the U.S. alone.

Meronoff said 150 people are registered for the La Jolla relay, but the goal is 250. Participants are encouraged to help raise a fundraising goal of $100, but anyone interested can register for $10.

The La Jolla Relay for Life will take place Saturday, June 29 from 9 a.m. to 9 a.m. Sunday, June 30, at La Jolla High School. The participation fee is $10. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.