As we observe Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, EmJac Industries proudly shines a spotlight on Chris Fletcher, director of sales and design at Harmonic Wine Displays, a division of EmJac Industries.
Chris’s journey through cancer has fueled his passion for giving back, and his efforts continue to make a significant impact in the fight against cancer.
In 2020/21, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Fletcher founded Swing Fore A Cure, the largest single-day fundraiser in Broward County for Relay for Life. He participated in a golf tournament, which raised over $50,000 in a single day.
Fletcher’s personal battle with cancer inspired him to become deeply involved in community initiatives aimed at helping others, especially children, who are facing similar challenges. “After my experience with cancer, I knew I had to do something to support other cancer patients, especially the youngest among us,” says Fletcher.
This commitment has led him to play a pivotal role in organizing and participating in events like the Wynmore Pickleball Championship, an event that brought the community together to support Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society of North Broward County.
Relay For Life is more than just an event; it is a global community of survivors, caregivers, local citizens, volunteers, and participants. They believe that the future can be free from cancer and that they have the power to make that change. It is currently the largest peer-to-peer fundraising event, with 2.5 million participants worldwide who come together to save lives from cancer. “Relay For Life is more than just a walk,” says Fletcher.
“It is a volunteer-led movement that unites communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and raise funds to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families.” The mission of the American Cancer Society is to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient support. Founded in 1985 by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Tacoma, Washington, Relay For Life unites communities across the globe to celebrate those who have been touched by cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action for lifesaving change. Since its inception, Relay For Life has raised $6.8 billion to help save lives from cancer.
Images: Constantine Van Horne photography
Funding and conducting breakthrough research and providing education
Dollars raised each year by Relay participants across the country help support the American Cancer Society’s mission in countless ways, including funding and conducting breakthrough research, providing education and advocating for the needs of cancer patients and their families, and providing essential services throughout their cancer journey.
Fletcher’s mother, Amy Pena, was also instrumental in rallying the community for the Wynmore Pickleball Championship. “Chris asked me if I would try to get Wynmore involved,” she recalls. “Between the groups we belong to, we almost have a thousand people, and they were more than happy to help and be a part of this fantastic Relay event.” Their combined efforts not only raised significant funds for cancer research but also strengthened the sense of community within Wynmore.
As EmJac Industries celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, we honor the incredible resilience and dedication of our team members like Chris Fletcher. His journey is a testament to the power of support, both given and received, and the profound difference it can make in the fight against cancer.
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For more information on how you can support cancer research and awareness, or to participate in upcoming events, visit the American Cancer Society’s website https://donate.cancer.org/.
