|
McKinney Texas - Relay For Life
01 Aug 2008
About Relay For Life
What is Relay For Life | How
Did Relay Begin | How does it Work | What
makes it Special | How
is Cancer Awareness Raised |
Relay For Life (often shortened to Relay or RFL) is the
signature fundraising event of the American Cancer Society. It is an overnight
event designed to spread awareness of cancer prevention, treatments and cures;
celebrate survivorship; and raise money for cancer research, prevention, early detection,
education, and patient services.
In May 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon and avid runner, took the
first step of his 24-hour walk/run around a track in Tacoma, Washington. He
clocked 83 miles, raising $27,000 to support the American Cancer Society. The
following year, 210 supporters on 19 teams joined Dr. Klatt in this overnight
event, and the American Cancer Society Relay For Life was born.
The scale of Relay is now enormous. In 2006, in the USA alone, over three
million people took part in Relays. Over half a million cancer survivors walked
the opening lap (which is a traditional part of all Relays), and over $250
million was raised, making it by far the biggest single fundraising activity in
the world.
The
American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is a unique celebration of life in
honor and in memory of those whose lives have been touched by cancer.
It has been described as a “huge compassionate support group” – a
place where friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, church groups, schools,
organizations, civic groups and loved ones join to celebrate survivorship and to
honor those who have lost the battle.
Relay For Life involves teams of 8-15 people who take turns walking or
running around a track all night long.
A party-like atmosphere prevails as team members camp out on the
surrounding grounds for the duration of the event to enjoy music, food, fun,
entertainment and activities while building camaraderie with fellow teammates
and participants.
Money is raised through team commitment fees and each
team member is asked to raise a specific amount of money prior to the event.
Incentive prizes are offered for those raising money above and beyond.
Cancer survivors kick-off the Relay with a Survivors Lap. After sundown, a
Luminaria Ceremony is held in which candles are lit in decorated bags to honor
those that have survived cancer and memorialize those who have lost their battle
to cancer. A moment of silence and special music will conclude this Ceremony.
The Relay closes the next day with a Victory Lap for all participants.
The American Cancer Society provides information about the latest research
and cancer control activities, patient service programs, and other local events.
Cancer survivors remind everyone that cancer is not always a death sentence;
their testimonies provide a way for the public to become aware of the strength
and courage that cancer patients have.
|
