Relay organizers say this weekend's Bakersfield Relay for Life brought nearly 30,000 people together.
The celebration also wrapped up with a record amount of money raised -- $2,129,339.76.
Relay organizers say they are still counting money. They couldn't provide us with new figures Monday, but say donations will continue to count toward this year's total until August 31st.
Relay for Life also held a special dedication for someone who brings significant history to the Bakersfield Relay.
“In the scope of the luminarias, there was a section that was dedicated to Dr. Gordy Klatt, who is the founder of Relay, who has recently been diagnosed with stomach cancer, so there was a section that was dedicated to him,” said Relay Manager Brenda Godbold.
This year’s celebration was full of passion and zeal. The camaraderie between the survivors and supporters helps them press on.
Denise Kobdish attended the event. “You know what spirit is, it is awesome, I like to think we are the biggest in the nation, and it's cool to be a part of that.”
During the event, the track was never left empty for 24 hours.
For cancer survivor Donna Herman, Relay for Life means bringing hope when it comes to finding a cure for cancer. ”You just feel so much support when you are out there and you realize that you are not alone and that there are a lot of people and survivors, they are surviving cancer.”
Relay organizers say they are already planning for next year’s event by contacting sponsors and team committees. Most importantly they want to keep focus by providing hope to those that are battling cancer.
