There are thousands of Relay for Life events across the country each year, and on May 9, DU will host its fourth annual relay.
From 5 p.m.–5 a.m. in Hamilton Gymnasium, teams will walk to celebrate those who have survived cancer and to honor those who lost the battle against it. Proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.
Kat Walsh, who will graduate this year with a BS and MBA, brought Relay for Life to DU in 2005 after founding the American Cancer Society’s Colleges Against Cancer branch on campus.
“It’s been my thing for four years now,” says Walsh, whose grandmother and two childhood friends were diagnosed with cancer when she was young. “It’s a good way to bring people together to have fun and create awareness.”
The event raised $10,000 the first year, $18,000 the second year and $40,000 last year. This year, DU organizers are hoping to raise $50,000, and as of May 1, more than $7,500 had been pledged online.
Also new this year is a partnership with viewmylife.com. If 500 DU students create an online account with them, the company will donate $1,000 to the relay.
This year’s “Hollywood” themed-event will include Karaoke, a three-on-three basketball tournament, volleyball games, music and food. Prizes also will be awarded to those who raise the most money.
DU’s Relay is open to the community, and teams can be any size. To participate, volunteer or donate, visit durelay.com.