You probably know that Relay for Life is an organization that promotes fundraising for the American Cancer Society. You probably know that Virginia Tech hosts the largest collegiate Relay in the world. But do you know what actually happens the night of the event?
The History
In 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt circled a track in Tacoma, Washington, to raise money for the American Cancer Society. He ran and walked more than 83 miles that night. With the support of his friends, family and patients, he raised $27,000. His ultimate goal was to see this event expand to more participants, teams and locations around the world. Today, close to $5 billion has been raised to end cancer once and for all, $5 million of which has been raised by Virginia Tech alone.
The Basics
Virginia Tech Relay for Life is a 12-hour event, running from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m., this year on April 22. The event has food, entertainment, fundraising events and ceremonies to honor survivors, those lost to cancer and a celebration of all we've accomplished this year. Don't worry, it may be called a Relay, but there's no actual running involved.
Entertainment
I am a member of the Entertainment Committee for VTRelay, and we like to call the event "Relay for Hype." Our job is to book and schedule acts and performances that keep you going all night long. On the schedule this year we have multiple local bands and DJs, dance teams, inflatables, a cappella groups, Zumba, yoga and the first ever DJ-off featuring DJ C-Jay and DJ Yousseff. This is all kicked off by the SAA Spirit Rally.
Speakers
As usual, we will be able to hear stories from survivors, caregivers and families of those affected by cancer. These speakers will be from the Relay committee and from the Blacksburg community. We are thrilled to have President Tim Sands speaking at this year's event, and we are beyond excited to welcome Frank Beamer to VTRelay as well!
Food
So you're probably wondering how in the world you're supposed to stay awake all night. Well don't worry, we've got that covered too. Thanks to our sponsors, we'll be having Starbucks Coffee, barbecue, Campus Cookies, Jimmy John's, frozen yogurt, pancakes and bacon throughout the night. We'll be having "waves" of different foods throughout the night, so don't worry, we won't run out.
Laps
Remember how I said that you don't actually have to run during Relay? While that's true, there is a track, and we do walk laps. These laps have significance, though, and they happen throughout the night. The Celebrate Ceremony is just that: a celebration of survivors and their caregivers. The Remembrance Ceremony is when the luminaria bags are lit. It's a very emotional time to honor those who have lost the fight to cancer. Towards the end of the night is the Fight Back Ceremony. This a time to get pumped about what all of our year-long fundraising efforts will be doing: research, awareness, the Hope Lodge and so much more.
How Do I Get Involved?
Easy. Sign up at vtrelay.org as a participant. Join a team (your club, greek organization or residence hall most likely has one) or create your own! From there you can start fundraising to finish the fight against cancer. Relay for Life is a great way to give back to the world, support a great cause and have a ton of fun in the process. Make sure to follow @vtrelay on Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat and like Virginia Tech Relay for Life on Facebook to stay in the loop.
Need more convincing? Check out last year's event:
