I recently took part in Mansfield University’s annual Relay for Life event. This was my second year taking part in this event. If you do not know, Relay for Life is held by The American Cancer Society to raise money for cancer research. I am fortunate enough to have never been personally affected by cancer. I still choose to participate in Relay for Life to help try and find a cure.

Even though I have never been personally affected by cancer, I have seen people who were. I have seen the effects that this horrible disease has on people. I know what families of cancer patients go through. Even though I have never experienced this, I do not want to see others experience it.

Participating in an event such as Relay for Life could help raise a lot of money for cancer research. You may think that one person will not make a difference. Maybe you think that the amount of money you raise will not do much for cancer research. Well, every penny counts. The more people who participate the more money The American Cancer Society will make.I participate because I know that the money I raise will make a difference, even if I do not end up raising too much. The money you raise may even end up saving countless lives.

Relay for Life is just a fun time. The event lasts twelve hours. You spend the time raising money, participating in games and activities, and walking laps around the area. You also get to spend time with your team. I participate with the brothers of Phi Mu Alpha (Beta Omicron chapter). At Mansfield University, the teams are made up of various organizations such as clubs and Greek life. Between fun activities and great people, (and sleep deprivation) Relay for Life is an awesome time.

In addition to fun activities, there are ceremonies at Relay for Life. At these ceremonies, you may hear stories from cancer survivors or the families of cancer victims. You will learn exactly why people participate in Relay. These stories and ceremonies give people hope. They give people a reason to keep fighting. They also show why cancer research is so important. If you did not have a reason to participate in Relay for Life prior to hearing these stories, you definitely will after.

I relay because I believe in The American Cancer Society. I think that this event is incredibly important. I have been blessed to have never been personally affected by this horrible disease. I have no idea what it is like to have a loved one diagnosed with cancer or live knowing that it runs in my family. Even so, I never want to see anyone else suffer. I never want to see a family go through the process of having a loved one diagnosed with cancer. I will continue to participate in Relay for Life year after year. I encourage you to do the same. Go out there, have some fun, and maybe give people a chance to live. Go out and Relay for Life!