On April 26, the football field was taken over by a group of students to play games, enjoy food and discuss a topic that has touched most people’s lives: cancer.
“Relay for Life is a club that fundraises for the American Cancer Society through raising awareness,” Addie Farrell, senior, said.
Lucas Mersky, senior, said the club allows many people “to come together and fight for a greater cause.”
The event was a way to bring the community together.
“At the past relay event we hoped to build community and raise awareness among students,” Farrell said.
The club planned an afternoon full of activities. It was also a way for survivors of cancer to share their experiences with others.
“At the event we played kickball, musical chairs and food was given of course. We had two speakers that talked about them getting diagnosed and their journey and how it affected them,” Sofia Babakhanov, junior, said.
Teachers, students and others in the community help to form a support system for those impacted by cancer.
“We have many students involved in Relay for Life and like to include teachers in all of our events!” Farrell said.
Supportive and strong relationships are a big part of Relay for Life.
“Joining Relay for Life will help raise more awareness to people who have cancer,” Babakhanov said.
Donation is another aspect of the club.
“Our goal is mainly centered around raising money for the American Cancer Society but also raising awareness for cancer and connecting with the community are added bonuses to participating in relay for life,” Helena Frets, sophomore, said.
Babakhanov comments that her favorite part of Relay for Life is the “community [they] have, and how everyone welcomes everyone.”
Farrell adds a similar statement that her favorite part is “meeting new members each year, and connecting with people throughout the community!”
The purpose of the club is what Mersky is most passionate about.
“I love the mission of Relay for Life. I am proud to be part of a club that fights against cancer,” Mersky said.
Frets discusses other parts of Relay for life that she enjoys.
“The large event at the end of the year is always fun! But all of the parts leading up to it are equally valuable to me from meetings in the morning or our fundraising at hockey games,” Frets said.
