Relay for Life is back! After the Covid-related hiatus in 2020, the American Cancer Society brought Relay to Life back to the Augusta area, and we were thrilled to be able to participate! The teams from AO Multispecialty Clinic and AO Multispecialty Clinic came out to the Columbia County Amphitheater in Evans Towne Center Park on the morning of Saturday June 26. We celebrated our survivors, remembered those we’ve lost, and fight back against cancer.
This year, the event combined Columbia County, Richmond County, and Aiken County. It was a great way to bring everyone in the CSRA together for an important cause.
Our team gathered under our tent to share swag bags and hear stories from survivors, play Cornhole and Jumbo Jenga, and enjoy a lunch catered by the team at Doctors hospital.
History of Relay for Life
Relay For Life began in May 1985. Surgeon Dr. Gordy Klatt sought out a new way to raise awareness and raise more money for local cancer research. He walked around a track for 24 hours and raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. Since then, Relay For Life events have taken place across America and multiple other countries. However, unlike many other cancer walks, Relay For Life focuses on all types of cancer. Ultimately, every type of cancer is recognized, as RFL honors every survivor.
Fundraising: Where Does the Money Go?
Money raised from Relay For Life events goes toward research, prevention, detection, education, and patient support. In addition, funds have gone toward research grants, patient transportation for cancer treatments, and patient lodging. Moreover, because of the research possible from funding and the increased accessibility of cancer treatment and education, the American Cancer Society has recorded a 20% decline in cancer related deaths since 1991. As the Augusta RFL falls in June, it was the perfect opportunity to celebrate Cancer Survivor Awareness Month.
Get Involved!
The American Cancer Society is already gearing up for the 2022 Relay for Life event! So, if you’re looking for a way to get involved, check out Relay Connect.
This helpful website provides updates on the upcoming event season, fundraising ideas, ways to connect with others in the RFL community, and more. However you choose to participate, ask your friends and family to join you! More people means more power to raise awareness and fight cancer.
If you’re an AO Multispecialty Clinic cancer survivor, we want you on our team! You can even create your own fundraising team to start raising lifesaving funds for cancer research. The American Cancer Society makes it easy to get involved and make a difference.
