The Shadow
ALLEGHANY COUNTY Va. (VR) – The Relay For Life Of Alleghany 2025 kickoff event took place on Tuesday, March 11th, under the inspiring theme “Racing For A Cure.” This year, the event holds special significance as we celebrate 40 years of Relay For Life, a milestone that allows us to reflect on the remarkable progress made in the fight against cancer. Together, we continue to advance the American Cancer Society’s vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
Reflecting on 40 Years of Relay For Life
Since its inception, Relay For Life has grown into a global movement, uniting communities across the world in the fight against cancer. Over the past four decades, countless individuals have walked, run, and rallied together to raise funds and awareness, contributing to groundbreaking research and providing vital support to those affected by cancer.
The journey of Relay For Life began with a single man, Dr. Gordy Klatt, who in 1985 walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington, raising $27,000 to help the American Cancer Society. His vision and dedication inspired what is now a worldwide phenomenon, with millions of participants each year. As we mark this 40th anniversary, we honor the legacy of Dr. Klatt and the countless volunteers and donors
who have made this movement possible.
Advancing the Mission: Key Initiatives for 2025
As we embark on another year of Relay For Life, it is important to highlight the key initiatives that your efforts support. Here are three ways your participation in Relay For Life is saving lives and bringing hope to communities everywhere:
Providing Support When It’s Needed Most
The American Cancer Society’s 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345) and cancer.org website provided support to over 360,000 people in 2023. These resources offer answers and guidance through phone, video calls, and live chat, ensuring that those affected by cancer have access to the information and support they need, whenever they need it.
The helpline and website are staffed by trained cancer information specialists who can assist with a wide range of questions, from understanding a diagnosis to finding local resources and support groups.
Removing Barriers to Treatment
Programs like Road To Recovery® provide free transportation to medical appointments, ensuring that people with cancer can access the care they need. Transportation can be a significant barrier to treatment for many individuals, especially those living in rural areas or without reliable access to transportation. By offering this service, the American Cancer Society helps patients stay on track with their treatment plans, improving their chances of successful outcomes.
Advancing Equity in Cancer Research
Through initiatives like Diversity in Cancer Research, the American Cancer Society is fostering a diverse scientific workforce and addressing disparities with health equity grants and partnerships. These efforts aim to increase screening rates in underserved communities and ensure that all individuals, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, have access to the latest advances in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion in research, we can better understand and address the unique needs of different populations, ultimately improving outcomes
for all.
Join the Fight: How You Can Make a Difference
By participating in a Relay For Life event, you help bring these critical services and breakthroughs to life for your community. Together, we are creating a future where every person has the opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer – regardless of who they are or where they live.
Your passion fuels this life-changing work. But our mission isn’t over yet. Every dollar raised through Relay For Life helps provide lifesaving programs, services, and research.
Let’s keep the momentum going!
Register Today
REGISTER TODAY to get your team going! Whether you’re a longtime participant or a new supporter, your involvement makes a difference. Gather your friends, family, and colleagues, and form a team to join the race for a cure. Together, we can continue to make strides in the fight against cancer.
Upcoming Planning Meeting
The next planning meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8th, at Bella Pizza in Clifton Forge, starting at 6 p.m. Please come out and join in the Race For A Cure. This meeting is an opportunity to connect with fellow participants, share ideas, and get inspired for the upcoming event. Your voice and input are invaluable as we work together to make this year’s Relay For Life a success.
In conclusion, the Relay For Life Of Alleghany 2025 kickoff event marks the beginning of another year of dedication, hope, and progress in the fight against cancer. As we celebrate 40 years of Relay For Life, let us remember the incredible impact we have made and the lives we have touched. Together, we will continue to advance the mission of the American Cancer Society and move closer to a world where cancer is no longer a threat to anyone. Join us in Racing For A Cure and be a part of this life-changing journey.
