'I skate for a cure'

HACKENSACK, NJ — Emily Schacher, a figure skater and sophomore at Monroe-Woodbury High School, hosted a Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer event on May 21 at the Ice House in Hackensack, N.J.
Emily skated 82 laps at the rink with 65 other participants, including Felicia Zhang, a pairs skater who competed for the United States at the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, and Daniel Raad, a 12-time U.S. National competitor in men’s and pairs.
This event was an effort to raise awareness and funds for the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation as well as Tomorrows Children’s Pediatric Oncology Unit of Hackensack Medical Center.
The total amount raised was $15,287. Support for the event came from many sources, including the local community, the teachers and staff of Monroe-Woodbury schools and the Ice House itself in donating the ice for the event and providing administrative support.
“Hosting a Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer fund raiser has opened my eyes," Emily said. "The more people I speak to, the more it seems like everyone is touched by this nightmare.
"People who I have known for years opened up about their experiences," she added. "Strangers told me their stories. I was inspired. I was encouraged. I want to spread that feeling as much as I can. The feeling that one day we will cure this disease. I skate because I care. I skate for a cure.”