Why Relay?

Cancer has touched all of our lives. For the newly diagnosed, the Relay offers a chance to meet someone who has survived the same type of cancer. For the cancer patient in treatment, the event provides an opportunity to share with others. For the long-term survivor, it offers community recognition of their struggle and closure to a trying time in life.

The Relay also allows caregivers to connect with others who are giving their time, love and support to friends, family, and neighbors facing cancer. The power of the Relay is that it offers all participants the peace of mind that comes from knowing that the whole community is coming together to meet the challenges ahead.

Relay for Life is a dramatic demonstration that one person can make a difference.

In May of 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt, took the first step of a 24-hour walk/run around a track in Tacoma, Washington to raise money for the American Cancer Society, He clocked 83 miles, raising $27,000. The following year, 220 supporters on 19 teams joined Dr. Klatt in this overnight event, and the American Cancer Society Relay For Life was born. Since then, the Relay excitement has spread like wildfire throughout the world – in 2005, 4200 Relay For Life events will be held in 20+ countries.

What began here in Tacoma, as one man's commitment in the fight against cancer, is now a worldwide movement to cure cancer – the largest of its kind in the world.

Relay For Life is an emotionally-fulfilling 24-hour event that raises awareness of cancer and raises funds to fight cancer. For many it represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day, cancer will be eliminated.

In the Relay For Life, crossing the finish line isn't nearly as important as stepping up to the starting line. We encourage you to become actively involved in this year's Relay celebration of life and hope.

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