The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Walk Relay for Life is a great way to celebrate life for those who have survived. It is also a fun way to raise money for the research supported by the society.
The Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society’s ‘signature’ fundraising event. An all-night event, teams of people take turns walking or running to raise funds for this cause. The walk boasts around 3.5 million participants.
It all started with Dr. Gordy Klatt who decided to raise money for his own American Cancer Society office by running a 24-hour marathon. The first year in 1985, he ran or walked around the track at Baker Stadium, University of Puget Sound for 24-hours, covering a total distance of 83 miles. Friends and family donated $25 to run/walk 30 minutes with him. He raised $25,000. From then on, the cancer walk, ‘Relay for Life’ has grown into a major event, with thousands of communities joining to fight cancer and help raise awareness and funds.
Once the 24-hour relay is over, the most important part – the ‘fight back’ ceremony is conducted. Following the mantra ‘Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back”, this 25th hour celebration is to honour those who have survived cancer, fought back and those who lost the battle.
If you want to support this cause, put together a team and participate in a local ‘Relay for Life’ event. Registrations only costs $10 and you can help raise funds. If you feel like donating some money to the ACS, rest assured it will go towards research, education and promoting quality medical care for those with cancer. If you need to contact the Relay for Life team, you can call them at 1-800-ACS-2345 or fill out the contact form on their website.