West Bloomfield Relay Raises $197K to Fight Cancer

The fundraising isn't over, but the 2013 West Bloomfield Relay for Life has already raised $10,000 more than last year's total. 

The main event, held June 8 and 9 at West Bloomfield High, drew 42 teams of volunteers who walked laps from 10 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Sunday. It has thus far raised $197,000. 

Organizer Michelle Silber said the entire event, which had a carnival theme, was larger this year. The decorated tents, games, "big top" tent entertainment and other activities gave this year's Relay for Life a very festive theme. 

"The feedback I've gotten has been amazing," she said. "People are already saying they want to form a team for next year." 

Vocalist Steve Acho, television personality Lila Lazarus and U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow participated in the event, and WMGC-FM 105.1 radio broadcasted from the site. Community leaders including West Bloomfield Schools superintendent Dr. Gerald Hill, walked a lap that Silber said was "very powerful". 

Silber credits her organizing committee with pitching new ideas and then following through on all of them. She said the organization has a history of hard-working volunteers; over the past 13 years, events have raised about $3 million. 

You can donate to West Bloomfield Relay for Life through Aug. 31 and teams are still raising money. Learn more on the the event webpage or on Facebook.