Relay for Life: Supporting Cancer Research, Honoring Survivors, Loved Ones Lost
Cancer is the enemy. It’s no one’s friend. And that is but one reason — among thousands of reasons — why it is important to support and to participate in what has become an annual awareness and action event on the University of San Diego campus each spring.
The 2016 edition of USD Relay for Life, an event connected to the American Cancer Society, will run from 3 p.m. on Friday, April 8 until 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 9 at USD’s Valley Field. It is, as one past USD student coordinator called it, “a life-changing event that helps our community celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and to fight back against the disease.”
And, they added, “Your reasons for getting involved in Relay for Life are as unique and special as the story that motivates you. Because of your support, we are creating a world with less cancer and more birthdays!”
Indeed, the USD Relay for Life is one of many fundraising events around the nation that supports the American Cancer Society’s cancer research efforts in finding a cure. The USD Relay for Life always has student organizations, departments, faculty and staff members who participate as teams at the event as fundraisers.
The event encompasses several activities throughout the night. There will be a Torero Program Board showcase, yoga, life-size foosball, a performance from the USD Improv Club, glow-in-the-dark Ultimate Frisbee, Zumba, and much more.
While there are individuals and teams walking laps around the field at all times, there are designated times for specific happenings.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for 4 p.m. and that’s followed by a survivors’ first lap and then a caregivers’ lap at 4:30 p.m. At 8 p.m., there’s a Luminaria ceremony, which features candlelight and all participants recognize loved ones lost, support for those who currently have cancer and honor people who fought cancer in the past. The closing ceremony, slated for 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, celebrates what all participants have accomplished by being present and working toward a cure.
To learn more about USD's Relay for Life event or to donate, please visit the website. Also keep up with the event through its social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.