The American Cancer Society is kicking-off this season’s Relay For Life events. At Relay For Life events, communities across the globe come together to honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease.
Relay For Life teams camp out overnight and take turns walking or running around a track or path at a local high school, park, or fairground. Events are up to 24 hours long, and because cancer never sleeps, each team is asked to have at least one participant on the track at all times.
Events take place in more than 5,200 communities and 20 countries. Relay For Life events are the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.
Here’s what to expect from Relay For Life:
• Organized, overnight community fundraising walk
• Teams of people camp out around a track
• Members of each team take turns walking around the track
• Food, games and activities provide entertainment and build camaraderie
• Family-friendly environment for the entire community
Survivors Lap:
During the event, there is also a Survivors Lap. All cancer survivors at the event take the first lap around the track, celebrating their victory over cancer while cheered on by the other participants who line the track. Relay For Life events also recognize and celebrate caregivers, who give time, love, and support to their friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers facing cancer.
Luminaria Ceremony:
The Luminaria Ceremony takes place after dark. Candles are lit inside of personalized bags and are placed around the Relay track as glowing tributes to those who’ve been affected by cancer.
Every year, the Relay For Life movement raises more than $400 million. That money is used to fund research and provide free information and services to cancer patients and their caregivers.
Click here to find a Relay For Life near you.
