Buckley’s American Cancer Society Relay For Life continues to grow and prosper.

Forty teams, with close to 800 participants, gathered near state Route 410 and the Buckley Youth Activity Center May 15 and 16 to celebrate cancer survivors, honor those who lost their battle with the disease and raise money for cancer research.

The opening ceremonies honored 85 survivors, including former White River High School teacher and coach Trena Page, who spoke as the survivors’ speaker.

The event raised close to $83,000, more than last year.

“It is really unbelievable in these times for our small community,” event chair Penny Frame said. “The dedication of the committee is outstanding. Their efforts, along with our sponsors, team captains, and many community members, are what made the event so successful.”

Top fundraising teams were: Ohana VII with Dianne Campbell as the team captain; Donation Domination with Scott Smith as team captain; and Hungry Housewives with Alisa Garate as team captain. Organizers this year also had six top sponsors: Mt. Rainier Bank, Parker Pacific, Anytime Fitness, Mixx 96, The Courier-Herald and the city of Buckley.

Throughout the two-day event, which encourages teams to keep one member walking the circuit at all times to bring awareness to the cause, organizers planned entertainment. Those performing included the White River High School jazz ensemble, the band No Apathy, the Buckley Fire Department Honor Guard, John Crain on bagpipes, Stephanie Dahl with the National Anthem, The Buckley Karate Dojo with John Crain and Michelle’s Studio of Dance.

There were also plenty of activities for young participants who could enjoy the bouncy house, face painting, sidewalk chalk, egg toss and pie-eating contests.

Reach Brenda Sexton at bsexton@courierherald.com or 360-802-8206.