Kathy Noorbakhsh, Northridge Drive, lost both her parents and her father-in-law to cancer. So when she heard about the first Mt. Lebanon Relay for Life, a 24-hour fundraising event for the American Cancer Society, she volunteered as a team captain. This is her third year as co-chair of the event, which has raised $825,000 including $216,003 last year. A director of revenue analysis at UPMC, Noorbakhsh will coordinate all aspects of the event along with Kate Truver.

PREP TIME The event planning takes the better part of the year and requires a tremendous amount of volunteer hours.

TRIBUTE What we have experienced in Mt. Lebanon is not the norm. Most Relays do not have the level of cooperation from the school districts or municipalities.

STAYING AWAKE 24 HOURS It’s easy! We are surrounded by all the energy and activities.

BEST SHIFT Many participants find the solitude and quiet of the night a time to reflect on those they have lost.

ORGANIZING TIP Find and retain great committee chairs and volunteers and trust them to do their job. It is also important to be open to all suggestions and comments—good and the bad.

INSPIRATION My wonderful family and friends

TOP TV SHOW The Amazing Race

TIME TRAVEL I’d travel to the future to see the next generations of my family.

FAVE PITTSBURGH EVENTS (BESIDES RELAY) The Pittsburgh Marathon and the Rachel Carson Challenge.

—M.A. Jackson
Photo by Martha Rial