Teams to Raise Money for American Cancer Society

Twenty-four teams — with 141 people total — are expected to participate in the 2012 Relay for Life of GLMV June 2-3.

The annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society will take place at Carmel High School in Mundelein.

So far, teams have raised more than $37,614. The top fundraisers include BFC Babes for Birthdays with $9,911, Hollister Hopefuls with $6,701 and Pres Blue with $2,648.

Registration for this year's event will start at 5 p.m. June 2, said Carley Alcorn, a Relay organizer from the American Cancer Society. Survivors and caregivers will be honored at a special reception at 5 p.m.

So far, 30 survivors have pre-registered to participate. Those individuals will lead the survivor lap at 6:30 p.m. Joyce and Tom McGuiggan, cancer survivors who live in Vernon Hills, will serve as this year's honorees, Alcorn said.

Alcorn said teams will host fundraisers throughout the evening at their campsites. There will be an activity tent for children from 6 to 8 p.m. DJ Chris Thelen will provide music.

Alcorn said theme laps will take place — including togas and crazy hats — and a dance party will begin at 2 a.m.

"It's definitely a fun atmosphere," Alcorn said. "In each community, it really does take on a personality of its own. Each community puts its own spin on it."

"They really are community events, and that's what makes it special," Alcorn added.

The luminaria ceremony, which remembers cancer victims and honors survivors, will be at 10 p.m.

Have you ever participated in a Relay for Life? Tell us about your experience!