The American Cancer Society reiterated its invitation to all those who want to celebrate cancer survivorship, remember loved ones and fight back against cancer, to participate at this year’s Relay for Life event.

 

Relay for Life is one of the world’s largest fundraising walks and is held in many countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, The Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Portugal, South Africa, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.

 

The participants have the chance to enjoy the camaraderie of a team and to raise money to help fight cancer. Teams of friends, family members gather at their local race track, park, or sports field and take turns walking laps. They try to keep at least one member on the track at all times. Participating in one of these events is a great way to have fun, build the community spirit and join the fight against cancer.

The participants are also celebrating the lives of those who have fought the disease and remembering those lost.

 

The 2009 Relay for Life marks the 25th anniversary of the Relay for Life movement, which was started by Dr. Gordy Klatt of Washington, who on the first year managed to raise $24,000 when he walked around a track for 24 hours. In 1986, 19 teams took part in the first team relay event on the track at the historical Stadium Bowl and raised $33,000.