Koolauloa Relay Fights Cancer As One Ohana

Koolauloa and North Shore residents are combining their efforts for Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society fundraiser, from 6 p.m. May 24 to 6 a.m. May 25 at Kahuku District Park. The event also marks the ACS’s 100th year and will offer many ways to help the relay teams and honor cancer survivors.

“We’re determined to make this cancer’s last century and finish the fight for people everywhere,” said chairman Don Porter. “We’re asking everyone to be as loud and active as possible in the battle to end cancer.”

Porter and co-chair Kristen Tu’ifua are planning 12 hours of fun, entertainment and food, which should help generate funds for local cancer treatments and services.

“I know we’re not the only family whose lives were changed because of this terrible disease,” said Tu’ifua, whose daughter was diagnosed with optic gliomas at age 5 months; she also cares for her mother who is battling breast cancer. “We look forward to joining with our community each year to celebrate loved ones who have battled cancer, remember those lost and to come together to fight back.”

Help and donations still are welcome for the May 24 relay. For more information, call Porter at 548-8444.

The Windward Relay for Life is set for July 13 at Kailua High School. (Call 432-9144.)