Why is Relay for Life an 18-hour team event?
Because families and friends, not individuals, fight cancer together, Relay is a team event. During the 18 hours of Relay, one member of the team must be circling the track at all times. The format of the event, therefore, is unique in that it parallels the successful fight of a cancer survivor and his/her family and friends. The Relay begins with an exciting ceremonial lap. The anticipation of the weekend and the completion of a successful day at home or work set a comforting tone, similar to the stable, happy life of a pre-cancer patient. As the sun sets, the diagnosis of cancer is made. The darkness brings about the emotions of fear and uncertainty about the future. Walking the track becomes more difficult without the aid of light. At 9:30p.m., a candle lighting ceremony is held to honor and remember past, current, and future “warriors” against cancer. The word may be “HOPE” spelled out in candlelight in the bleachers. This is symbolic of the cancer patient’s everlasting hope for re
