On one day, each year, people all over the world join together in a movement to fight-back against cancer, remember loved ones lost too soon, and raise awareness through Relay For Life.
Each person has their own reason for participating; a personal experience, a friend or family member, or maybe just disgust over the statistics regarding this tragic disease. Whatever that reason may have been, last Friday students from all different organizations, clubs, and groups on TCNJ’s campus took the time out of their busy schedules to join together in memory and support of all those who have faced the battle against cancer, raising over $95,000 to be donated to the American Cancer Society!
I was given the chance to speak with some students who participated in Relay For Life this year, and ask them “Why do you relay?” I received a variety of answers, each one inspiring me more and more, and making me so proud to stand amongst such dedicated, compassionate men and women. Here are some of the responses I received so you too, may be inspired and gain a sense of hope that someday cancer will not win.
“I relay because I believe too many people are under the impression that we cannot make a difference in this world. People like to believe that some things will never change. I believe in the change that American Cancer Society believes in for those people who have lost hope. And though so many people have lost hope, one person in my life never did, my uncle who died of cancer when I was ten, so I relay for hope and for him.” -Lyra Biancamano, Relay For Life Team Leader for Sigma Kappa
“I relay not only for my grandma that has passed away from cancer, but for everyone that has suffered from this unfortunate disease.” –Matt Ranieri, Sigma Alpha Epsilon
“I know too many people who have cancer, so it’s a cause that’s close to my heart, that I enjoy helping out with.” -Maura Fox, Publicity Chair for College’s Against Cancer
“I relay because honestly, people matter. It seems sappy but the more people join together and help those in need, the closer we are to finding a cure and showing those people affected by cancer that they’re not alone in this. Just having another person or two by your side makes a world of difference.” -Billy Jones, Delta Tau Delta