Relay for Life began in 1985 with one person running around a track for 24 hours to raise money for cancer research. Some 25 years later it is now held in over 20 countries, with millions of volunteers coming together for the same purpose. As it says on their website: “Relay for Life are life-changing events that bring communities together and help them honour those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and fight back against the disease.”
In short, Relay for Life is a 24-hour walk-athon where at least one member of the team is moving around a track or course continually for the entire 24 hours. In addition to walking, team members also contribute by raising money, either through individual donations, sponsorship, fundraising parties, or by bringing whatever talents they have to bear. All funds raised from Relay for Life go to the Foundation against Cancer. This money is used to support scientific research, provide social care to people affected by cancer, along with their families, and to promote prevention and healthier lifestyles.
A few examples shown below illustrate the tremendous amount of money and resources that are necessary to support just three core activities in the fight against cancer:
Scientific cancer research:
• An average cost for a laboratory technician: €240 per day
• The investment in a fluorescent microscope: €50,000
Social care to patients, along with their families:
• While treatment is continued, participation for one child in a children’s holiday camp for one week: €1,000
• One consultation for psychological treatment: €37
• CancerPhone: €35 per hour
Promotion of a healthy lifestyle:
• One prevention kit for schools: €60
• One package ‘wise sunbathing’ for schools: €60
How you can become part of this:
You can join the Together For Life team and participate in the walk/run: www.relayforlife.be/teams/together-life
Or you can make a donation to Relay for Life by sponsoring someone in the team: www.relayforlife.be/teams/together-life
Please note that donations are tax deductible in Belgium.
