The Quad

Issue date: 4/28/08 Section: Features

On April 26 and 27, West Chester University students took a stance in the fight against cancer by participating in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. The 24 hour event created a memorable atmosphere as it celebrated the strength of cancer survivors, for people to remember those who have passed away from the illness, and created a spirit of hope by raising money for advancements in cancer research.

West Chester University's Relay for Life was a collaborative effort between students involved with WCU's Colleges Against Cancer program and a local chapter of the American Cancer Society. 61 teams of 8 - 15 students camped out at the South Campus Gym and participated by taking turns to run or walk around a track; each team was asked to keep one representative on the track for the entire duration of the event. According to relayforlife.org, participants were encouraged to collect monetary donations that help fund cancer research, early detection and preventative education, and other support services for cancer patients and survivors. Molly McGrath, current secretary of WCU's Colleges Against Cancer chapter and president-elect of the organization for 2008-2009, was very pleased at the amount of effort student participants put into fundraising for Relay.

"Last year we went into the event having raised $28,000, but over the course of the 24 hours we were able to continue fundraising and our grand total was an incredible $40,000. The goal set for us by the ACS was $25,000 so we shocked everyone," McGrath said.

The student Relay for Life groups had already raised $32,000 prior to the start of the event; they were sure to meet or exceed the ACS fundraising goals again this year. The WCU Relay for Life event contributed to a larger national fundraising effort by the American Cancer Society; it is estimated by the American Cancer Society that approximately $1.5 billion has been raised through Relay for Life since its start in 1986.

WCU's Relay for Life was a fun-filled weekend for all involved. The event kicked-off with opening ceremonies, where each team that participated was introduced. Live music was provided by local bands at the event, and other activities that took place within the twenty-four hours included tie-dying, a scavenger hunt, board games, outdoor recreation, and bingo. Cancer survivors and caretakers were honored during a special Survivor's Ceremony; Barb Gunselman, breast cancer survivor and local entrepreneur, addressed Relay participants with an inspiring speech during this time. A new addition to Relay for Life this year was a presentation entitled "Picture A Cure," where an American Cancer Society member spoke and Relay for Life participants were encouraged to write down why they became involved with the event. The letters from Relay Participants would then be given to legislators as a means of advocating cancer research.

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