Marianas March Against Cancer set for May 16-17

As one of the leading causes of illness and death in the CNMI and all around the world, cancer greatly impacts many aspects of our lives. Cancer affects people of all races, age groups and genders. It is the second-leading cause of death in the CNMI. Fortunately, the search for a cure is making substantial progress. With events like the Marianas March Against Cancer, we are continuing to raise critically needed funds in the fight against this deadly disease. The 2008 Marianas March Against Cancer will be held on May 16-17 at Hopwood Junior High School in Chalan Piao from 6pm to 6am.

The Marianas March Against Cancer is the largest fundraising event in the CNMI to support cancer education and promote awareness. The event not only raises funds, it elevates awareness and encourages hope for those struggling with the disease. MMAC gives supporters an opportunity to honor and be with cancer survivors, and to remember those who have lost the battle against this terrible affliction. MMAC is the signature fundraising event for the Commonwealth Cancer Association, a volunteer-driven organization which ensures that all funds raised are applied locally. All funds raised will go towards the fight against cancer.

Thousands of people participated at last year’s Marianas March Against Cancer where more than $80,000 was raised. Participants walked, ran, and danced around the oval course for over 12 hours. The 2008 MMAC Committee is inviting the general public to attend this important community event so the fight against cancer gets all the support needed. There will be games for children to play, live entertainment throughout the night, informational booths where cancer statistics will be available and raffle prizes to be won including free tickets to the U.S. and Asia courtesy of Northwest Airlines. Food and drinks will also be sold throughout the night. Bring all your friends and family down and support the battle against cancer!

In honor of all cancer survivors, there will be a dinner banquet held for survivors that evening.

The 2008 MMAC Title Sponsors are Duty Free Shoppers, PTI, Joeten Charitable Foundation, and Northwest Airlines. Major sponsors are Shell Marianas, Younis Arts Studio, Saipan Mayor’s Office, and Angil Design. The MMAC Committee would like to thank all businesses, organizations and individuals who have supported MMAC in one way or another.

Cancer survivors are urged to contact Nora Sablan at 235-0998 or via email at norasablan@gmail.com mailto:norasablan@gmail.com. For other MMAC inquiries, please email Chris A. Concepcion at chrisaconcepcion@gmail.com mailto:chrisaconcepcion@gmail.com>or Catherine Attao at attao20@yahoo.com mailto:attao20@yahoo.com. [B][I](PR)[/I][/B]