Campus was abuzz recently in light of the UNC-Duke basketball match up. Despite the devastating loss, UNC students helped the Tar Heels reign off the court in Relay for Life’s Beat Duke Week. Volunteers from Chapel Hill’s Relay for Life challenge the Cameron Crazies to a competition of who can raise more funds for the American Cancer Society in the days prior to the big game.
Relay for Life is a 24-hour community event that takes place nation wide in an effort to raise money for cancer research, advocacy, education, and patient services. This year’s Relay will take place on Fetzer Field on Friday April 20th
Last year was the first year Beat Duke week was incorporated into Relay for Life’s fundraising campaign. This trial run has proved to be a great success. Last year overall, UNC raised approximately $20,000. This year, Relay garnered even more support and tremendous success by raising over $50,000!
Students have responded well to the ‘Balloon a Dookie’ event held in the Pit the day before the game. Students raised $125 in the span of two hours. For one dollar, a true Tar Heel fan had the opportunity to take his or her aggression out at someone decked out in Duke gear. Relay Publicity Chair Alex Englehart was a good sport for the cause and adorned the Duke merch. He said he received positive feedback from the balloon toss. Senior Trevor Parton said: “It was a huge success. We are looking forward to making the Beat Duke week a tradition because all of the money goes towards beating cancer.
A highlight of the week was the mock luminary ceremony orchestrated by the advocacy and luminary committee. Displayed in the evening at the Pit, candle filled bags honor and remember loved ones who have battled the disease. Senior Dan-Thanh Nguyen said: “Every time I went to the Luminary ceremony it was bittersweet, yet heartwarming. Everyone has a fight, everyone has a story. It brings everyone together.”
At the Relay in April, the luminary walk features a key-note speaker who shares how cancer has impacted their life. It is by far the most meaningful part of the event and truly displays why everyone is there continuing the fight against cancer, celebrating life and hoping for a cure.
Pride is on the line, but also bragging rights. A huge advertisement is featured in the losing school’s newspaper proudly stating that the opposing team raised more money for ACS over the course of a week! Keep an eye out for Duke’s loss to be displayed in the
If you are interested, it is also not too late to participate! Start your own team or join an already existing one. It only costs ten dollars to sign up and includes your own 2012 Relay participant t-shirt. If you can’t commit for the full day, stop by! People can come and go as they please to check out the food, music and entertainment, and raffles and prizes. For more information or to donate to the ACS go to www.uncrelay.org