The Calabasas Relay for Life, which took place at A.E. Wright Middle School this past weekend, brought in much-needed funds and new blood to the 11th annual event.
"At this time, we have raised approximately $159,000 towards our goal of $163,000," said Laura Saisse, event chair. "As monies are still being counted and continue to come in, it looks like we will easily make our goal."
This year's event drew 47 teams and 848 participants, Saisse said.
In addition to the typical relay activities, Philippe, a 2010 Grammy nominee for Best Contemporary Jazz and Laura's husband, organized Band Together for a Cure, a special 2 hour smooth jazz concert.
The show featured Euge Groove, Rayford Griffin, Dan Lutz, Philip Fiorio and R&B sensation DW3.
Olympic Gold medalist Lisa Leslie made a surprise appearance to lend her support and sign autographs.
The 2013 fundraising season does not end until the end of August, according to Saisse.
"So we need to keep pushing," she said.
The money raised by the event goes to the American Cancer Society's Road to Recovery Program, which offers patients free shuttle bus rides to and from treatments. Other programs include beauty counseling, free hotel lodging for patients, and breast cancer counseling services.
For more information, go towww.relayforlife.org/calabasasca.
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