Each year, more than 4 million people in over 20 countries raise money for the American Cancer Society through a fundraiser called Relay for Life.
The 12-hour walking relay serves as a multi-purpose event by supporting current cancer survivors, remembering those who lost their battles and celebrating those who won.
University of Memphis students have an opportunity to raise money and honor those affected by cancer by participating in their own relay beginning at 6 p.m. April 11 and ending at 9 a.m. April 12 at Tiger Lane.
"We started the relay at the U of M so that we could give back to the American Cancer Society, which gives money to many cancer fighting organizations," said communications major Maggie Agnew, entertainment chair for the University of Memphis relay.
This will mark the University's second annual relay. Currently, students have raised over $1,000 for the American Cancer Society with the event two weeks away. The goal for this year is $30,000. Students are split up into fundraising teams upon registering.
"It forces you to get out of your home and understand that there are those out there with a harder life than you," said communications major Greg Pratt, who attended the event last year. "It gives insight to the feelings of those people who sacrifice a normal life because of the troubles they must endure involuntarily."
The first lap of the relay is called the Survivors lap, where all cancer survivors at the event take the first lap to celebrate their victory over cancer while being cheered on by the other participants. The Caregiver lap follows and recognizes those who have given care to cancer patients. All other participants and teams are then invited to walk together during the Opening lap.
Other events planned for the night include musical performances, glow in the dark corn hole and black light Zumba.
Students are able to sign up for the relay or make a donation by logging on to relayforlife.org. The registration fee is $10.
"Students are encouraged to come out and participate, because this is such a great organization that benefits so many individuals affected by cancer in some way," Agnew said.
