The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) Orange County Inland Empire Chapter is excited to announce a new partnership with Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. Auto Club Speedway, California’s premier motorsports facility, is geared up to support LLS by hosting a series of fundraising events throughout the coming year.
Auto Club Speedway continues to be involved in making a difference in the local community, and the driving force behind their partnership with LLS is the close connection blood cancer has had on the Speedway family.
In April 2014, vice president of operations, Ray Wilkings’ very own daughter was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). She has since received a bone transplant from her mother, Darlene Wilkings, and is now leading a normal life with no sign of cancer.
In October of 2014, corporate hospitality manager, Roxanne King’s daughter was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Although currently in the maintenance phase of treatment, she was able to start kindergarten in November of 2015.
“Blood cancer does not discriminate between young and old, or the disadvantaged or well-off. It’s a disease that strikes indiscriminately,” said Dave Allen, president Auto Club Speedway. “The least we can do is offer hope by helping to raise funds so more cures and treatments will be developed now and in the near future. We are honored to work alongside all of the people behind LLS including the survivors, family members and friends, and the hundreds of volunteers, who sacrifice countless hours each year.”
Auto Club Speedway has already confirmed Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016 as the official date of the Light The Night Walk which will be held at Speedway this year. This event usually attracts more than 4,000 survivors and raises more than $500,000 every year. Additionally, The Speedway will be hosting a Light The Night Kick Off and Survivor Day during the NXS 300 on March 19, 2016, as well as a corporate recruitment lunch to secure additional sponsorships.
Michael Shumard, executive director at LLS’s, Orange County Inland Empire Chapter said, “We look forward to a fruitful and rewarding partnership that will enable us to expand our annual Light The Night Walk and reach even more survivors and supporters in the Inland Empire. We so very much appreciate all of the support from the leadership of the Speedway.”