Relay for Life New London (RFLNL) committee members were overcome with gratitude recently as they were presented a check for $13,500. The Kari Deimer Answer To Cancer Corporation gifted the proceeds of the third annual Wolf River Raft Race to RFLNL.

On December 12, 2010, Kari Deimer passed away at the age of 31 after a short and intense battle with cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer). Kari’s cancer was rare and aggressive and while it weakened her body, her spirit remained positive throughout her treatment.

The Wolf River Raft Race was created by her family and friends to capture the love of life and intensity Kari Deimer lived it.

Kari’s sister-in-law Renee Deimer said, “We knew the Relay was the place to give the money because so much of it is used for cancer research.” The remainder of the gifted monies stays local to support cancer patients and the services they need. Kari’s mother Judy Deimer said, “We’re just so thankful to keep Kari’s passion for life alive.”

American Cancer Society’s Community Relations Representative Tracy Carey stated, “It’s incredible when we are gifted such a large amount of money by a group who is passionate, like we are, about curing cancer.” She went on to say, “Everything we do at Relay For Life events contributes to reducing cancer mortality and incidences, whether it’s raising dollars that support free cancer patient programs and services, research, or volunteering to commit to advocacy and education efforts – we’re all a part of the fight and we always need the community’s help.”

Relay For Life New London Chairperson Rae Ann Kalbus said, “This Wolf River rafting event shows how much fun a person can have while working toward an amiable goal. It’s a great combination and this is a very creative fundraiser.”

Local Relay surpassed hefty goal

In June of this year, Relay for Life New London teams far exceeded their $86,000 goal by $18,000, with a total of $104,000. Donations collected after the event dates were accepted up until August 31, the official closing date for the 2013 event.

The local teams dedication to the fight against cancer through the American Cancer Society’s signature event has them raising money year round. Lift Truck Specialists, a dedicated veteran team to RFLNL, hosts three fundraising events each year, the most creative of them being the Motorcycle Rodeo held at Bean City Bar and Ballroom. The team was the top money raiser at RFLNL, contributing $24,500. Team member Sue Wolf explains that the team just plain will not quit the fight against cancer. Every single member of the team either has won the battle of the disease, or has watched someone fight it. Many have also lost a loved one.

Karoline Showers of the team On Eagles Wings was the top individual fundraiser with over $6,000 of donations.

Many teams organized rummage sales, bake sales, and brat fry’s.

Being such a success was cause for celebration, and coincidentally fell on the American Cancer Society’s 100th birthday, another reason for cheering the Society on. The birthday theme of this year’s Relay was represented by huge birthday cakes, candles, balloons and streamers at team campsites. Several teams offered cake and other birthday treats at their sites.

The American Cancer Society Relay for Life, a team-based fundraising event, is a fun and empowering, family friendly way to make a difference in the fight against cancer. That weekend, participants spend the night at the New London Intermediate Middle School, walking laps on the track, socializing, playing games, dancing and participating in planned activities. The event is open to the public, who can also purchase luminary bags that honor their loved ones, or remember those who have passed on.

The ACS will continue its efforts to save lives from cancer by helping people stay well get well, find cures, and fight back.

New London hosts Relay For Life next year on the second weekend of June. Teams from all around the New London area can sign up at any time. Register by going online to www.relayforlife.org/newlondonwi. Call Rae Ann Kalbus at 920-573-3489 to enroll by making a phone call.

The American Cancer Society will continue its efforts to save lives from cancer by helping people get well, find cures and fight back.