Relay for Life

by Denise Landry-Horowitz

Local residents are preparing to participate in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Ashland-Holliston, on Saturday, June 7th at Noon until Sunday, June 8th at Noon at Ashland Middle School.  To learn how you can become involved please call: Denise Landry-Horowitz : (508)429-8613 or Sandy Parnell: (508)429-2123.

Residents from surrounding towns are invited to attend the Relay and join a historic American Cancer Society research study, Cancer Prevention Study - 3 (CPS-3). Interested Participants must enroll at the Relay CPS-3 site on Saturday, June 7 from 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Eligible participants will be given the opportunity to help researchers understand better ways to prevent cancer. The American Cancer Society's Research Department is recruiting a diverse group of 500,000 adults across the US and Puerto Rico for a new research study, CPS-3. Enrollment will take place at select Relay For Life events across the country including the Relay For Life of Ashland - Holliston as well as seven additional CPS-3 enrollment sites across Massachusetts. The study will help researchers better understand the genetic, behavioral, environmental, and lifestyle factors that cause or prevent cancer and ultimately help to eliminate cancer as a major health concern for future generation.

Eligibility Requirements:
1) Between 30 and 65 years old
2) Has never been diagnosed with cancer (this does not include basal or squamous cell skin cancers),
3) Willing to make a long term commitment to the study, which involves completing a follow-up survey every few years.

Participation Involvement: Enrollment process is simple and involves two phases. On June 7th at the Relay For Life Event, you will be asked to:
1) Read and sign an informed consent form
2) Complete a brief written survey
3) Provide waist measurement
4) Give a small blood sample (similar to a doctor's visit). The blood sample will be drawn by a trained, certified phlebotomist.
5) At home you will be asked to complete a more-detailed survey.

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society's largest signature activity as well as the most successful national fundraiser. It is a unique event that offers communities an opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer. Dollars raised during Relay For Life help support American Cancer Society's programs of research, education, advocacy, and patient services.

For more information about CPS-3 or to enroll in a state near you call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www. cancer.org/CPS-3 or call Karen Horowitz at (508)245-1911.