Relay for Life 2012 part one

I have a new passion in life and that is to raise as much money as I can to fight cancer. As you know I have lost way too many people to this horrible disease. Just as awful I have watched family and friends struggle through and survive. I got involved with a program called Relay for life.I thought I would tell you a little bit about it since sometimes people don't really know what it is.The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Cancer never sleeps so neither do we. Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length. One person can make a difference and one person did his name is Gordy Klatt. Relay For Life started in the mid-1980s in Tacoma, Washington when Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon, wanted to enhance the income of his local American Cancer Society. He decided to personally raise money for the fight by doing something he enjoyed — running marathons. In the spring of 1985, Klatt spent 24 hours going around a local track –more than 83 miles – and throughout the night, nearly 300 people paid money to run or walk at intervals with him. He raised $27,000, and the experience led to his vision of 24-hour relay teams that raise money for cancer research. Months later he pulled together a small committee to plan the first team relay event known as the City of Destiny Classic 24-Hour Run Against Cancer. In 1986, 19 teams took part in the first team relay event on the track at the colorful, historical Stadium Bowl and raised $33,000. An indescribable spirit prevailed at the track and in the tents that dotted the infield. Klatt’s vision turned into an annual program which has raised more than $4.8 billion, and has been an inspiration for millions of cancer survivors, caregivers and communities across the globe. Just a few weeks ago Dr. Klatt was diagnosed with stomach cancer. He has stayed so positive telling everyone to work their hardest at this years events. I hope we will be able to pull in more money then ever to honor him. I know as our team we did the best we ever thought we could. I will tell more about it in the next post.