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Relay for Life In May, 1985 Dr. Gordon Klatt took the first step of his 24-hour marathon around a Tacoma, Washington track and raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. The following year 240 supporters joined Dr. Klatt in this overnight event and the Relay for Life was born. In 2000-2001, Relays were held in 3000 communities raising $210,000,000 for the fight against cancer. Relay for Life is the nationwide signature activity for the American Cancer Society. It is not a benefit for the American Cancer Society or an event to support the American Cancer Society, it IS the American Cancer Society and it is the single largest non-profit event in the world. Relay is a community developed, volunteer driven, team event to fight cancer. Relay is an overnight event where families, clubs, schools, businesses, churches, service groups, public employee groups, health care professionals and others form teams to raise money and participate in event activities. On Relay night, participants pitch tents and decorate in the theme their team has chosen and everybody is "ready to Relay." Relays will take place in 180 communities throughout the Mid-Atlantic this year, starting on Friday afternoon/evening and ending the next morning/afternoon. In each community, cancer survivors, young and old, are invited to begin the Relay by walking the Survivors’ Victory Lap around the track. After the victory lap, one person from each team remains on the track throughout the entire 24 hours. After dark, a Luminaria Ceremony is held where candles are lit in remembrance of those who have lost their battle with cancer and in honor of those still surviving. The heartfelt love and caring shared by friends and family during this ceremony is moving and healing. One woman recently described it as "a huge support group" of those who care. Throughout the evening and into the next day, participants enjoy entertainment, games, music, great food, camaraderie and tons of fun. Long before the last walkers approach the finish line at closing ceremonies, new life long friends have been made, old friends and family have been hugged and all hearts have been touched by the magic that is RELAY FOR LIFE. Relay for Life provides our best opportunity for expanding cancer control, advocacy, volunteerism and fundraising; for reaching diverse populations with life saving information and for increasing the awareness of all the programs and services offered by the American Cancer Society in communities throughout our nation. "It’s about a Community that takes up the fight!" |
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Dr. John Elrod Mock Pie In The Face Auction
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Page updated
February 1, 2005
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