The American Cancer Society Relay For Life

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life began in the mid-1980's in Tacoma, Washington, as the City of Destiny Classic 24-Hour Run Against Cancer. It was founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon.

He wanted to help his local American Cancer Society. He enjoyed running marathons so he decided to personally raise money by circling the track at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma for 24 hours.

During these 24 hours others paid $25 to run or walk with him for 30 minutes. He raised $27,000 to help fight cancer.

As he was circling the track he thought about how others could help. It was then that Dr. Gordy Klatt visualized a 24 hour team relay event to raise money for the fight against cancer. And this is how the Relay For Life started.

2008 was our first year as a team in Relay For Life. After Kaden's leukemia diagnosis in August 2007 we wanted to do something to fight back against cancer. My sister and myself (Kaden's mother) started a team as captain and co-captain. Our team name is Kaden's Crusaders. We had a lot of fun participating in the 24 hour event. The idea is to have someone from your team walking on the track at all times throughout the 24 hours. We actually had members of our team walk 20 miles straight without stopping to show their support for Kaden!!! It was amazing! Oh...and did I mention that our team won the Team Spirit award? We did and Kaden was soooo excited when he saw that trophy.

There are special events that take place for all cancer survivors. These events include the torch walk, survivor dinner and the survivor lap. There was also a rocking chair that was being raffled off that survivors could rock in for 30 minute intervals.

Kaden participated in the event that is called the torch walk. It is a walk along the road that is escorted by police and firemen. Cancer survivors are invited to participate by carrying a burning torch. Each survivor walks a short distance and then hands the torch off to another survivor. They continue this until the torch reaches the track where the main event takes place.

This was an amazing and emotional experience.

Most teams use the event as an opportunity to raise even more money for the fight against cancer. They sell items such as food, crafts, raffles and more.

At our local event this year the goal was to raise a total of $106,000 for the American Cancer Society. We well exceeded that goal by raising $129,700!!! What an awesome feeling to be a part of that experience!

If you are interested in taking part in Relay For Life just contact your local American Cancer Society for information.

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