Thursday, January 25, 2024

Schuylkill County Relay For Life Returns for 2024



The 29th annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Schuylkill County is set to take place on June 15, 2024, at Bubeck Park in Schuylkill Haven.

Cancer remains the second most common cause of death in the United States, following heart disease. 

This volunteer-led movement aims to unite communities in celebrating cancer survivors, commemorating those lost to the disease, and raising funds to make a significant impact on cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survival.

Trysha Nettles, the Event Lead, expressed the shared passion that propels the movement forward, stating, “Relay For Life is more than just a walk. It is a volunteer-led movement that unites communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer and raise funds to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families,” said Nettles. “Thanks to that shared passion, we are working to help the American Cancer Society advance its mission through advocacy, research and patient support in an effort to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer.”

After a two-year hiatus, the event is returning to Schuylkill County with a new location generously provided by the Schuylkill Haven Recreation Department. Volunteers have already rallied, raising an impressive $17,870.50, with a goal set at $50,000. Looking ahead to 2025, the event will mark its 30th run in the county.

The Relay For Life event, traditionally hosted at Pottsville Area High School, has garnered support from the local community and beyond. The opening ceremony is scheduled for 1 PM, and the closing ceremony will take place at dusk. Among the event highlights are a Survivor and Caregiver program, a Luminaria program to honor those lost to cancer, themed laps, and various other ceremonies. The festivities will also feature food trucks, entertainment, and opportunities for interested vendors to participate.

Founded in 1985 by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Tacoma, Washington, Relay For Life has become a global movement uniting communities to celebrate those touched by cancer and to advocate for life-saving change. Since its inception, Relay For Life has raised an astounding $6.8 billion, contributing to groundbreaking cancer research, education, advocacy, and essential services for cancer patients and their families.

The event encourages participation in several ways, including joining a Relay community to connect with survivors and caregivers, signing up for Relay at RelayForLife.org, and donating to fuel the American Cancer Society's fight against cancer at RelayForLife.org/Donate. The Relay For Life of Schuylkill County remains a beacon of hope, bringing communities together to make a meaningful impact on the fight against cancer.