American Cancer Society: Relay For Life

Each year an organization called American Cancer Society travels around the world hosting an event called Relay for Life raising money to help cancer research. Communities around the world join together to honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones who have lost the fight to cancer and to fight back against the disease that has taken the lives of so many. Relay for life began thirty years ago by a man named Dr. Gordy Klatt a surgeon from Tacoma, Washington. Klatt was a man with a utopian vision, he wanted to raise money for his local American Cancer Society office. He did so by doing something he loved, running marathons. In May 1985, Klatt spent 24 hours running laps around a track for 83 miles at Baker Stadium at the University of Puget
Gordy Klatt is someone who proved that “one person can make a big difference in the world”. In April 2010 Klatt received the terrible news that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer at the age of sixty seven. Klatt released a statement saying “Throughout the years I have spoken and written about how cancer can personally affect everyone. It affects the rich, the poor, and all nationalities and cultures around the world. About 4 weeks ago I was diagnosed with stomach cancer and I have begun my battle with this disease using chemotherapy.” Klatt’s utopian impulse grew even more driving him everyday to wake up and fight the grueling fight against cancer. Klatt released another statement saying “I am even more energized to defeat this disease worldwide. I will again be with all of you in spirit this Relay season – even more so this year. Celebrate the survivors; remember those who lost the battle and fight back! We all need to celebrate more birthdays and by relaying we keep the hope alive through education, community involvement and fundraising for ongoing research.” The vice president for Relay for life encouraged participants to rally around the founder and support Relay for Life even more so by saying “The best way we can pay tribute and honor Gordy is to redouble our efforts in the 2012 Relay season … adding one more team, one more team member or one more additional donation…. and creating an extra meaningful Relay experience for those touched by that Relay spirit