Dozens participate in Relay for Life in Rockland County to support cancer survivors
The Relay For Life event was held at Dominican University in Orangeburg.
More Stories
Dozens participated in Relay for Life on Friday in Rockland County to show support to cancer survivors.
Jelien Ramos, who is 9 years old, was diagnosed with leukemia when she was just 3 years old.
"It was 2 1/2 years of constantly in and out of the hospital. COVID hit at the same time she was in treatment," says her mom Amneris Rivera.
Now, Jelien Ramos and her family are big advocates for cancer awareness.
"It's celebrating my honor and other people's honor for cancer," says Ramos.
She advocates every year at Relay For Life.
"We're also honoring the people who died from cancer and that's why we're doing this," says Ramos.
She wasn't the only one.
Dozens of survivors, caregivers, volunteers and supporters participated in the Relay For Life event at Dominican University in Orangeburg.
"We have survivors come and we have a chance to really celebrate them, to acknowledge them, and recognize the work of caregivers," says Leigh-Ann Todd, with the American Cancer Society.
The American Cancer Society estimates over two million people will be diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. this year, which is why for many at Relay For Life, it's important to honor the lives lost and celebrate survivors.
"It means the world because I get to celebrate my daughter who is a survivor," says Rivera.
