Residents dined in their pajamas as they sipped P.J. punch Monday, June 28, at Maya Restaurant in Scotts Valley — all under the auspices of raising money for the American Cancer Society.
The evening was a fundraiser for Scotts Valley’s and the San Lorenzo Valley’s first Relay For Life. The relay is right around the corner and will take place starting at 10 a.m. July 10 at Scotts Valley High School.
Monday’s pajama party raised $670, Maurer said.
“It was a really fun event for a good cause. Everyone had a good time,” said Jackie Maurer, who organized the party.
Beginning in April, Maurer ornamented many Scotts Valley lawns with pink plastic flamingos as another fundraiser for the American Cancer Society preceding the relay. Her flock of 50 birds appeared unexpectedly on lawns and in yards before they were moved on to someone else’s home — for a small fee. To get rid of them, each homeowner made a small donation to the cause.
So far, the local Relay For Life has raised more than $20,000 toward cancer research.
“It is coming along better than expected. There has been a lot of community support,” Maurer said. “I think we’re going to make all our goals.”
Maurer said the relay is close to her heart. Cancer hit home for her when her son was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma at 17 years old.
“It was hard on him, but even more traumatic for me, I think,” Maurer said. “It changed our family. It made us appreciate each other and life so much more.”
The 24-hour walk around the Scotts Valley High School track will be one of many that take place all over the country.
“The idea is that cancer never sleeps, so we’re never going to sleep,” said Jennifer Highland, Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley Relay For Life chairwoman.
Teams of between 10 and 15 walkers will each keep at least one team member walking on the track during the entire 24-hour relay. The teams have collected cash and pledges from friends, neighbors and local businesses.
Highland already has 20 teams lined up and said it’s not too late to create more.
Maurer said the relay caters to cancer survivors and is a place for the community to fight cancer together.
“We really think it’s important for everyone to come out and see what it’s about,” Maurer said. “Once you go to a relay event, you will keep coming. They are that inspirational. Plus, they’re free to attend.”
