Relay for Life Menifee Raises Thousands to Fight Cancer

In a Relay for Life tradition, cancer survivors walked the first lap on Saturday morning at Paloma Valley High School. Menifee 24/7 photos: Kristen Spoon

Cancer survivors, families and friends of those battling cancer, and other local supporters took part in the ninth annual Relay for Life Menifee for 24 hours beginning Saturday morning.

Participants raised more than $68,000 in donations and through raffles and games that took place on the infield of the track at Paloma Valley High School. There, participants of 20 teams took turns walking laps around the track throughout the day and night, many sleeping in tents on the field.

Jennafer Griswold, event chair the last three years, described the importance of the event to participants during Saturday morning's opening ceremonies. In addition, Mayor Scott Mann (left) attended the opening ceremonies to proclaim May 16-17 Relay for Life Days in Menifee. He spoke to the audience about his first-hand experience with cancer through the illness of his mother Julie, who was recently diagnosed with cancer.

Paloma Valley High School principal Don Williamson accepted a plaque of appreciation from the Relay for Life committee to the Perris Union High School District for providing the facility.

The event continued throughout the day and was highlighted by a luminaria ceremony at 9 p.m. Candles were lit and placed in bags surrounding the track as a tribute to those who have battled cancer. Closing ceremonies took place this morning.

Event chair Jennafer Griswold presents a plaque of apprecation to the school district, represented by Paloma Valley High School principal Don Williamson.