From sunrise to sunset, a crowd of people walk for a purpose, hoping to bring hope to the community. The positive aura of the people and the bright lights that illuminate the night bring many smiles. The Relay for Life is a well-known movement centered around raising money as well as awareness for the American Cancer Society while supporting those who have been affected or impacted by the disease. As teams gather to raise money, every step will strengthen the fight against cancer.
This year’s Relay for Life is taking place on May 31 from 4-10 p.m. at the Westford Academy track. Although it is a national event, different towns and universities host their own relays for life in support of the overall cause. The event, hosted by WA’s Relay for Life club, symbolizes a strong reminder that cancer will never stop impacting lives, but neither will the fight to end the disease.
“My favorite part of the event last year was to get to see all different people come together for one cause that they all cared about,” sophomore Alivea Peladu said. “it was so wholesome to everyone even if they were all on small teams, to truly be on one big team all together and walk for everyone who can’t. I am really excited to be doing it this year,”
According to Relay for Life advisor Amanda Everett, the relay for life is more than just a walk with the addition of fun games; it is a day to raise hope. The event is open to the entire Westford community including students, teachers, staff, and local businesses. As participants walk laps, they will have the opportunity to remember loved ones who have been affected by cancer, celebrate those who have survived, and share their past experiences.
“I loved seeing all the people who came with friends to support this amazing cause that we are trying to raise awareness for. It means a lot when people come out to support,” club member sophomore Caitlin Piendak said.
Throughout the day, there will be multiple family-friendly activities designed to entertain all ages as well as food and music. Teams will have the chance to raise funds through donations and all proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society. Moreover, there are many ways to be involved in this event whether it be through forming a team and actually participating in the walk or cheering from the sidelines.
“We brought spike ball and cornhole and different things like that, so that people can have fun,” Everett said. “This year we are going to have more inflatables, offer pizza parties for teams that fundraise a certain amount, and have laps where you can collect beads to keep track of how many laps that you do,”
One of the most moving and heartfelt parts about the relay is the Luminaria ceremony that takes place during the last few hours of the event. At that time, the track is lined with Luminaria bags, each one dedicated to someone who is battling cancer, a survivor of cancer, or someone who has passed away as a result of the disease. According to Everett, the Relay for Life is an event worth going to as it is a day of hope and remembrance.
“Whether you are walking for a loved one, fundraising or showing up to support, your presence will make a difference,” Everett said.
