What Is Relay for Life?
According to the American Cancer Society, the “Relay For Life” movement is the world’s largest peer-to-peer fundraising event dedicated to saving lives from cancer.
For over 35 years, communities across the world have come together to honor and remember loved ones and take action for lifesaving change.
“Funds raised through Relay For Life directly support breakthrough research, 24/7 support for cancer patients, access to lifesaving screenings, and much more.”
There are three major ways for people to get involved. There is Relay USA, Global Relay For Life and Relay For Life of Second Life.
Relay USA is when all Americans wishing to participate gather together to walk up to 20 miles. The more miles a volunteer walks, the more money they raise for the cause.
While people are walking, other events occur like survivor hour, mellow honey and the luminaria ceremony.
For Global Relay For Life, 26 countries from six continents participate in the walk. For Relay For Life of Second Life, people can participate virtually.
The 3D world is a unique experience and gets more people involved, and people can even create their own avatars.
Penn State joins Relay USA and thousands walk. While people walk on different days, all of the donations add up to help cancer research.
This is a simple and easy way for people to learn more about cancer research, hear stories from survivors and patients and remember those who have passed.
Emily McGlynn is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email esm5378@psu.edu.
