Ten-month-old Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer patient, Bela, who is now cancer free, lined up at the starting line at the 28th Annual Torch Run surrounded by family and supporters.

Pediatric cancer supporters, physicians and hundreds of current and former pediatric cancer and blood disorder patients and their families were united with a common goal of crossing the finish line in support and in memory of those who lost their fight against pediatric cancer. On Saturday, June 8, the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center (JJCCC) at Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach held its 28th Annual Champions Run for Life Torch Run and raised more than $250,000 for pediatric cancer research at JJCCC.

Alexis Ortiz (center pink tutu), acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivor, was grinning ear-to-ear as she set off on her lap around the track surrounded by her family, friends and supporters.

The Annual Torch Run is a way for patients to celebrate another year won in the fight against cancer and other blood disorders, and for families to remember loved ones lost. The long-running event will help hundreds of children with cancer, sickle cell disease and other serious blood disorders from JJCCC. The day-long event consisted of a relay race – in which pediatric cancer “champions” carried a torch – a symbol of hope for a cure for cancer. Champions walked, ran, wheeled or were carried and passed the torch to the next pediatric cancer “champion,” together getting one step closer to the finish line.

Each pediatric cancer “champion” was excited as they waited for their number to be called. Surrounded by their support team made up of family members, friends and members from their care team at Miller Children’s, the “champions” were cheered on the entire way making every step personal. The scene was an inspirational, uplifting event with ecstatic cheering from supportive onlookers.

“The Torch Run is an event our families, patients and care teams look forward to each and every year,” says Amanda Termuhlen, M.D., medical director, Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center, Miller Children’s. “The Torch Run gives our extended families a chance to come together on one day, in one location and celebrate our journeys together.”

Supporters of Alexis Ortiz wore “Team Ali” t-shirts to show their support at the 2013 Annual Torch Run.

Donations from the Torch Run support new, innovative treatments for JJCCC patients, crucial supportive care programs for their families and expand clinical research efforts, allowing future generations and their families to continue to benefit from this event’s support and dedication.