What is it Relay for Life?
With one of the most important events in Cancer research fundraising coming up in approximately 3 weeks, many have never been given an answer to the following question: “What is Relay for Life?”
For the next three issues, The Eagle Eye will be highlighting Relay and answering the following three questions: “What is it?” “How can I join a team?” and “What can I expect at the LHU Relay for Life?”
Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life is a community event that gives people a chance to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer and survived, remember those who have lost their lives, and just fight back against the disease.
At the event, clubs/organizations take turns walking around the track or path. Each participating group always has a representative on the track. The event is always a full 24-hour long, because cancer never sleeps.
Relay for Life began in 1985, when Dr. Gordy Klatt went against the norm of fundraising and ran around a track for a full 24-hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Because of one man’s passion and desire to bring awareness to this disease, the Relay has marked the anniversary every year and become a national event.
It is estimated that 3.5 million people participate nation-wide annually, in more than 5,000 communities. In addition to the USA, 200 countries participate internationally.
Even with the widespread participation, each Relay event is held in relatively the same way, with certain traditions that are non-negotiable.
The event always begins with a Survivors Lap. At this time, the survivors are invited to run the first lap together and celebrate what they have achieved. At this time, caregivers of these survivors are also recognized.
At twilight, the Luminaria Ceremony occurs. At this time, it is more solemn, and vigil-like. Candles are lit in bags of sand, bearing the name of a person who lost their life. Participants walk in silence and take the time to remember those who are lost, all while walking alongside others who are battling. This is a time for grieving together and finding solace in each other. It is a time that truly displays importance of defeating the disease.
Lastly, there is a Fight Back Ceremony. This is a time when people make personal commitments to fighting the disease throughout the year.
But why do people Relay? What fun is it to walk around a track for hours on end?
According to the American Cancer Society, we relay so “that the hope that those lost due to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated.”
It’s also a community event where everyone has a chance to come together, celebrate, remember, and fight back. Everyone knows someone who has been affected by the disease, which makes cancer a common entity among us all. When people who share a commonality come together, it is often a life-changing time.
Next week, more information will be given on how you can start a team on campus or join a team already made.
Until then, carefully consider being a part in this amazing event. Also, ponder this statement from the American Cancer Society: “No matter why you take part in Relay, one thing is clear: with every step you take, you are helping the American Cancer Society save lives. With your help, we aren’t just fighting one type of cancer – we’re fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. Each person who shares the Relay experience can take pride in knowing that they are working to create a world where this disease will no longer threaten the lives of our loved ones or claim another year of anyone’s life.”