Relay for Life

Why to get involved?
There are several reasons why people get involved with Relay for Life.  Almost everyone involved has been affected by cancer.  Many are survivors who walk with their families and loved ones.  Others are caregivers.  Many more come as part of the grieving process for someone who has lost their battle with cancer.  But let me share my reasons since I am one of the minority at Relay for Life who have not been directly impacted by cancer.  First off, one of my favorite features of Relay for Life is that it is a team event.  No one should go through cancer alone and therefore, no one participates in Relay alone.  Being part of a team is a great way to build friendships with people outside of your usual group of friends.  Another reason that I am involved with Relay for Life is that you raise money throughout the year and at the relay.  Team members are encouraged to be creative about fundraising and to be active in their communities.  And finally, the most important reason I have for participating each year in Relay for Life is that it is a way to support those who have survived cancer, are currently battling cancer, have lost loved ones to cancer, or have been caregivers to someone with cancer.

How can you get involved?
First you will need to form a team.  Anyone can be a team leader but you will need leadership and organizational skills.  Once you have a few members, contact your local Relay for Life committee to let them know that you would like to make a commitment.  You can do this as early as the days following the Relay.  You should be ready with your team at least a month or two before the Relay so you have ample time for fundraising and planning.  The second thing you and your team will do is to find ways to raise money year long.  As I said before, be creative and involve your community.  Research on the internet and talk to others in your area to find out how other teams have raised money.  Ask family, friends, or local businesses to support your team with donations.  Buy a luminaria and decorate it.  Attend the Relay with your team and create or sell food to raise more money.

If you do not have a team, you can still support Relay for Life.  You can serve as a committee member or volunteer your time or other talents on the night of Relay.  There is always a need for people to help organize the event, to entertain those who attend, and to perform tasks.  You can donate money to any of your local teams or directly to the American Cancer Society.  You can buy items sold by teams as part of their fundraising efforts.  You can buy luminaria and decorate them.  And, of course, you should attend the Relay for Life to show your support.

What is the experience like?

When the day of the Relay arrives, teams set up campsites  near the walking track.  This gives team members who are not walking a place to rest and recuperate.  It also creates a social atmosphere.  Teams also sell food and other items at their campsites to those who attend the Relay.  Many teams also have activities such as games and raffles to continue their fundraising efforts.  During the day and early evening, the community is encouraged to come out and enjoy the food and games.  Each relay starts with an opening ceremony that includes the Survivor's Lap.  Seeing those people embrace life and recognizing their struggle is always inspiring.  Each team has at least one member walking the track at all times.  Walking around the track at night and seeing all of the luminaria with their messages of support and love is serene and purposeful.  It is also meant to symbolize the battle that faces those diagnosed with cancer.  The night is long and can become  very dark and lonely.  But our friends and loved ones can provide support and be our light along the path.  In the morning, there is a closing ceremony that includes prayers of thanks.

http://www.relayforlife.org/index